IND vs NZ ODI: The spotlight returns to the 50-over format this Sunday as a star-studded Indian side prepares to face New Zealand in the first of a three-match ODI series. This opening clash marks a historic milestone for the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium, which will host its first-ever men’s international match.
India is pulling no punches for this series, welcoming back modern-day greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the lineup. Their presence adds significant firepower to a squad that is blending legendary experience with fresh leadership.
All eyes will be on Shubman Gill, who takes the reins as captain. After a disappointing exclusion from the T20 World Cup squad, Gill is eager to prove his mettle as a leader on the international stage. Joining him in the leadership group is Shreyas Iyer, who has been named vice-captain. Iyer’s return is particularly emotional; he has been on the sidelines since October after suffering a serious spleen injury during the series against Australia. Having found his rhythm in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is expected to reclaim his pivotal No. 4 spot.
The atmosphere in the Indian camp was dampened late Saturday by a concerning injury to Rishabh Pant. During a marathon batting session, the wicketkeeper-batter was struck by a sharp delivery from a throwdown specialist. Reports indicate he suffered a right-sided strain and an internal muscle tear, effectively ruling him out of the entire three-match series. In his absence, KL Rahul is expected to take over the gloves.
When and where to watch IND vs NZ ODI match
The first ODI between India and New Zealand is set for Sunday, January 11, at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium (also known as Kotambi Stadium) in Vadodara. The toss will take place at 1:00 PM IST, followed by the start of play at 1:30 PM IST.
IND vs NZ: Live streaming details
Fans can catch the live action on the Star Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.
IND vs NZ: Full squads
India: Shubman Gill (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.
New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (captain), Devon Conway, Mitchell Hay, Nick Kelly, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Josh Clarkson, Zak Foulkes, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Jayden Lennox, Michael Rae.