India’s ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand is set to be announced, and the selection meeting has already sparked intense debate around rest, form and future planning. With the T20 World Cup beginning on February 7, the BCCI selectors are expected to use the ODI leg primarily as a preparatory phase rather than a full-strength contest.
As per reports, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are likely to be rested to keep them fresh for the T20Is. Their absence could open opportunities for youngsters like Harshit Rana and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh to take on greater responsibility. Veteran Mohammed Shami, who has impressed in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, is also under strong consideration for a comeback, especially with India looking for experience in the bowling attack.
The biggest talking point, however, remains Rishabh Pant. Despite being one of India’s most explosive match-winners, Pant has not played an ODI since August 2024 and did not feature in a single 50-over game in 2025. Reports suggest that sections of the team management are not fully convinced about his high-risk batting approach in ODIs. If Pant is dropped, Ishan Kishan is seen as the frontrunner to return, with Sanju Samson also in contention as a more stable middle-order option.
Captain Shubman Gill is set to return after recovering from a neck issue, while Virat Kohli continues his strong run of form in domestic cricket with Delhi, using the Vijay Hazare Trophy as ideal preparation. Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad are expected to form a strong top-order core.
The ODI series begins on January 11 in Vadodara, followed by matches in Rajkot and Indore, and will be India’s final 50-over assignment before the team shifts full focus to T20 World Cup preparations.
