The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand today, January 3, 2026. The series is scheduled to begin on January 11 in Vadodara, followed by matches in Rajkot and Indore. Several senior players are expected to return to the squad, while some big names might miss out due to workload management and fitness concerns.
One of the major talking points surrounding the selection is the potential return of Mohammed Shami. The experienced pacer has been out of the ODI side since the Champions Trophy in March 2025. After a subpar IPL season and subsequent fitness concerns, he was sidelined from the Test squad for the England tour and hadn't been considered for selection since then. However, Shami has been performing well in the domestic circuit, particularly in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he has taken eight wickets in four matches for Bengal. Selectors are closely observing Shami's domestic performance, and a BCCI source indicated that his comeback is possible, especially with the 2027 World Cup in focus. With Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested, Shami's experience and ability to take wickets could make him a valuable addition to the squad. Mohammed Siraj is also in contention for a spot in the team.
Another key point of discussion is the possibility of Rishabh Pant being dropped from the ODI squad. Pant's last ODI appearance was in August 2024 against Sri Lanka. Since then, he has been part of the squad but hasn't been included in the playing XI. There are reports suggesting that the team management isn't completely convinced with Pant's high-risk approach and prefers a more traditional batting style. While Pant has decent ODI numbers in the limited opportunities he has had, his recent form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy hasn't been impressive. It is reported that Ishan Kishan is the frontrunner to replace Pant in the squad. Dropping Pant without giving him a fair run in the team could raise some questions, especially considering his match-winning potential.
Shubman Gill is expected to return and lead the side, having missed the ODI series against South Africa due to a neck injury. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are also set to return to the top order, with Yashasvi Jaiswal as a back-up opener. Shreyas Iyer's availability is uncertain as he is still undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. Hardik Pandya is also likely to be rested to manage his workload. Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana are expected to shoulder the fast-bowling responsibilities in Bumrah and Pandya's absence.
Likely India ODI squad could include Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
The ODI series against New Zealand is crucial for India as they begin their preparations for the 2027 World Cup. The series presents an opportunity for players to cement their place in the ODI setup and provides clarity on team selection ahead of future ICC events.
