India Prepares for 2027 World Cup with ODI Series Against New Zealand

India's ODI Series Against New Zealand: A Prelude to the 2027 World Cup

Team India is set to commence its preparations for the 2027 World Cup with a three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11. The first match will be held at Kottambi Stadium in Vadodara, followed by the second ODI in Rajkot on January 14, and concluding with the third ODI in Indore on January 18.

This series marks India's initial challenge of 2026, preceding the T20I segment of their home white-ball series. The Men in Blue will engage in six ODI series this year, with New Zealand serving as the first significant test for the squad's balance and combinations as they gear up for the World Cup.

Let's delve into what fans can anticipate from Team India in this ODI series against New Zealand.

Key Players Returning to Form

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are back in the national squad after a brief hiatus following their participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last December. Both players enter the series against New Zealand with strong performances from their recent outings.

In the ODI series against South Africa, Kohli amassed 302 runs at an impressive average of 151, while Rohit contributed 146 runs at an average of 48.60 over three matches. Kohli also made a notable return in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 131 and 77 in his matches, while Rohit scored 155 in his first List A match in seven years.

As India gears up for the World Cup, both players are expected to leverage their current form to build momentum.

Shubman Gill's Comeback

Shubman Gill is poised to make his return to Team India after being left out of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad. Despite being appointed as T20I vice-captain prior to the Asia Cup, he was omitted due to a lack of runs and team combinations, as noted by the chief selector.

Gill's performance in T20Is has been inconsistent, with 291 runs at an average of 24.25 in 15 matches. After recovering from an injury, he played only one match in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring just 11 runs. However, his strong ODI record against New Zealand, with 603 runs at an average of 69.2 in 12 matches, could bolster his confidence.

Middle Order Experimentation

The current management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, has been experimenting with the middle order to find the right combinations. Various players have been tested in different batting positions, with all-rounder Axar Patel and KL Rahul featuring prominently in recent series.

With Shreyas Iyer returning from injury and available for selection, along with KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, India aims to establish a stable middle order against New Zealand.

Pace Attack Dynamics

With Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya rested to manage their workloads, and Mohammed Shami not included in the squad, Mohammed Siraj is expected to lead the pace attack. He will be supported by Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna, providing a mix of experience and fresh talent.

In previous matches, India's pace attack lacked experience, which drew criticism after South Africa successfully chased a large total. Siraj's presence will add reliability and the potential for crucial breakthroughs against New Zealand.

India's Strong Home Record Against New Zealand

Historically, Team India has never lost a series or tournament against New Zealand on home soil, boasting a strong head-to-head record in ODIs with 31 wins out of 40 matches. Since 1987, India has won all eight bilateral ODI series against New Zealand.

Following their defeat in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, India has played five ODI series, winning four against South Africa, England, and Australia, while losing only one to Sri Lanka in 2024. This continued success reinforces India's status as favorites against New Zealand at home.