India's Upcoming ODI Series in New Zealand: A Historic Five-Match Format
India's ODI Series Against New Zealand
India is gearing up for its first five-match ODI series in seven years, with significant changes anticipated in the schedule for the upcoming tour of New Zealand later this year. Fans can look forward to witnessing more of star players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during what is expected to be their final tour of New Zealand.
The Indian team is slated to engage in an all-format series against the Black Caps in September and October. According to the current Future Tours Programme (FTP), the series includes two Test matches, three ODIs, and five T20Is. However, this schedule may undergo alterations.
Reports indicate that New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to modify the series by adding two more ODI matches while reducing the T20I series. This adjustment would result in five ODIs and three T20Is being played. The rationale behind NZC's request is primarily commercial, as the presence of Rohit and Virat is expected to yield higher returns for broadcasters and stakeholders from ODI matches.
For those unfamiliar, both Rohit and Virat have retired from Test and T20I formats, now exclusively participating in ODIs for India. Following the conclusion of the 2026 T20 World Cup, the focus will shift towards ODI cricket, leading up to the 2027 Cricket World Cup, which is the next significant ICC event in men's cricket. The increased number of 50-over matches will aid India in its preparations.
As per the current FTP, this tour will mark the Indian team's last visit to a SENA nation (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) before the major event. The 2027 World Cup is scheduled for October-November 2027 and will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The last time India participated in a five-match ODI series was in March 2019 against Australia at home, while their last away five-match ODI series occurred in January 2019 against New Zealand.