Shreyas Iyer & Shubman Gill Selected for New Zealand ODIs

India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand sees the return of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill. Iyer, recovering from a spleen injury, is set to return as vice-captain, pending fitness clearance, while Gill will lead the side after missing the South Africa series. With key players like Hardik Pandya absent due to fitness concerns, India’s squad is a mix of experience and emerging talent ready for the challenge.

Shreyas Iyer & Shubman Gill Return to India's ODI Squad for New Zealand Series

India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand has been announced, with two significant returns—Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill—set to feature in the three-match contest. Iyer, who has been recovering from a spleen injury sustained last October while fielding against Australia in Sydney, will make his comeback as vice-captain, provided he clears the fitness tests at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. Gill, who missed the previous ODI series due to a neck injury, will return to lead the side in this crucial series.

India's Strong ODI Squad for New Zealand Series

The Indian squad is a blend of experience and youth, with key players ready to take on the Black Caps. The squad includes:

Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC)*, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal

Shreyas Iyer's inclusion depends on his fitness clearance.

Shubman Gill's Leadership Return

Shubman Gill will take on the captaincy of the Indian side after missing the previous ODI series against South Africa due to a neck injury. The talented opener, who has been in stellar form, will lead India into the series against New Zealand, offering him a significant opportunity to showcase his leadership qualities. Gill's return to the squad marks an essential boost for India as they prepare for this crucial series.

Shreyas Iyer's Comeback After Injury

Shreyas Iyer's return to the Indian squad is also highly anticipated, as the vice-captain's presence adds stability to the middle order. However, Iyer's inclusion is contingent upon receiving a fitness clearance from the BCCI's Centre of Excellence. The 28-year-old batter has been an integral part of India's ODI setup, and his recovery from the spleen injury has been closely monitored. Iyer's experience and versatility in the middle order will be crucial for India against a strong New Zealand team.

Key Absentees: Hardik Pandya and Others

One of the significant absences from the squad is Hardik Pandya, who has not been deemed fit to bowl his full quota of overs. The selectors have taken a cautious approach regarding Pandya's fitness, especially with the T20 World Cup around the corner. The decision to manage his workload has resulted in his exclusion from the series against New Zealand. His absence opens the door for other all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Washington Sundar to step up and contribute both with the ball and bat.

Other Squad Changes and Updates

Ruturaj Gaikwad and Tilak Varma, who were impressive in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, have had to make way for the returning senior players. Despite their strong performances, including centuries in the domestic tournament, the selectors have opted for experience in this series. Rishabh Pant, who has been retained in the squad as the second wicketkeeper behind KL Rahul, will continue to play an essential role in the squad's balance.

The pace department sees a strong contingent with Mohammed Siraj returning alongside Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and debutant Harshit Rana. Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack, while Jadeja and Sundar provide additional support. The return of Siraj and the inclusion of fresh talent like Harshit Rana ensure a potent bowling lineup for India.

Conclusion: India Poised for Tough Battle Against New Zealand

India's ODI squad is a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, ready to face the challenge posed by New Zealand. With key players like Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill returning to the fold, the Indian team is looking strong for the series. The absence of Hardik Pandya and the inclusion of fresh faces in the squad only add to the intrigue surrounding the upcoming matches. As India gears up to face New Zealand, cricket fans eagerly await what promises to be an exciting and fiercely contested series.

Also Read: Team India’s Squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 & NZ Bilateral Series