Pant to sit out, Kishan to replace him in NZ ODIs! When will Team India’s squad be announced?

India vs New Zealand ODI series begins January 11, 2026. Team India squad announcement expected this week.

India and New Zealand will play a three-match ODI series starting January 11, 2026. The Indian squad for the series against New Zealand has not been announced yet. However, reports suggest that Rishabh Pant might be dropped from the ODI squad.

Rishabh Pant likely to miss out

Rishabh Pant was part of India’s ODI squad for the South Africa series, and also travelled with the team for the ODI series against South Africa earlier this year, where he didn’t get to play a single match. According to a reports, selectors are considerin dropping him for the New Zealand series. Pant last played an ODI in 2024, and he has not been a regular pick in this format for a long time.

Ishan Kishan could replace Pant after strong domestic form

If Pant is dropped, Ishan Kishan might get the nod as his replacement. Kishan was recently picked for the T20 World Cup 2026 and the T20I series against New Zealand, and he has been in excellent form in domestic cricket. His recent performances have put him firmly back in the selectors spotlight.

Kishan’s 500+ SMAT runs and VHT century strengthen his case

A report from Sports Today claims Kishan could be part of the ODI squad for this series. He scored more than 500 runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and also hit a century in the opening match of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. These back-to-back strong outings have boosted his chances of returnin to the ODI setup.

Kishan is expected to be India’s second-choice wicketkeeper after KL Rahul. He also gives the team flexibility, as he is a solid opening batter and a dependable option behind the stumps. His aggressive batting style and current form make him a strong contender for the role.

Indian Squad expected to be announced this week

The Indian squad for the New Zealand ODI series is likely to be announced by the end of this week. This series is seen as an important step in India’s plans ahead of the T20 World Cup, even though it is being played in the 50-over format.

ODI Match Schedule: January 11, 14 & 18

The three ODIs between India and New Zealand will be played on:

• January 11, 2026
• January 14, 2026
• January 18, 2026