The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day International series against New Zealand, set to commence on January 11. Shubman Gill will captain the side, marking his continued leadership in the 50-over format whereas vice captain Shreyas Iyer also marks a return to international cricket, subject to fitness clearance.
Veteran players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been included, continuing their participation in ODIs following strong showings in recent bilateral assignments and domestic competitions. The batting lineup receives a significant boost with the inclusion of Iyer as vice-captain, though his participation remains dependent on final medical approval from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has secured his position in the team, edging out competition amid discussions about potential alternatives.
All-rounder Hardik Pandya, however, will not feature, as the BCCI prioritised his recovery and workload ahead of the T20 World Cup in February. The board noted that Pandya has not yet been approved to deliver a full quota of 10 overs.
“The Senior Men’s Selection Committee has picked India’s squad for the upcoming IDFC First Bank three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting 11th January at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara. Shreyas Iyer’s availability is subject to fitness clearance from BCCI COE. Hardik Pandya has not been cleared by the BCCI COE to bowl 10 overs in a match and considering the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to follow, his workload is being managed,” the BCCI release stated.
Pacer Mohammed Siraj makes a comeback after being rested previously, bolstering the bowling attack alongside Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna. Veteran Mohammed Shami does not find a place in the lineup.
Notable omissions include Ruturaj Gaikwad, who misses out following Iyer’s inclusion.
– 1st ODI: January 11 – Vadodara
– 2nd ODI: January 14 – Rajkot
– 3rd ODI: January 18 – Indore
Shubman Gill (C), Shreyas Iyer (VC)*, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
