Team India has officially announced its squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, commencing January 11 at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara.
With the T20I World Cup on the horizon, the selectors have rested Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, opening doors for fresh talent alongside returning veterans.
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Here’s the strongest ODI Playing XI of Team India vs NZ:
The Top Order:
The Team India’s opening pair features the formidable duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Rohit, a seasoned campaigner with nearly 1,000 ODI runs against the Kiwis, will provide the early rhythm. Partnering him is Gill, who has is the captain of the team.
Gill famously holds a stellar record against New Zealand, including a double century in this format. At No. 3, the “backbone” Virat Kohli returns. Kohli boasts 1,657 runs and 6 centuries against New Zealand, and after a “red-hot” December against South Africa, he remains India’s most dangerous asset.
Middle Order and All-Rounders:
Shreyas Iyer returns as vice-captain for Team India, though his spot at No. 4 is subject to fitness. If he clears match simulations, his ability to dominate spin will be vital. Following him is KL Rahul at No. 5, acting as the primary wicket-keeper and anchor.
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The lower-middle order gains balance from veteran Ravindra Jadeja and emerging star Nitish Kumar Reddy. In Pandya’s absence, Reddy has a golden opportunity to cement his place as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
Bowling Attack:
With Bumrah rested, Mohammed Siraj leads the pace battery. Siraj, making his ODI comeback, has a clinical record with 73 wickets in 47 matches.
He will be supported by the left-arm variety of Arshdeep Singh and the raw pace of Harshit Rana, who also provides “handy” batting depth at No. 8. The spin department will be anchored by Kuldeep Yadav, whose wrist-spin variety remains a primary wicket-taking weapon in the middle overs.
Predicted Playing XI:
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), KL Rahul (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.