Shreyas Iyer is set to return to the India ODI squad for the New Zealand series, subject to final medical clearance. He is currently training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and is expected to stay there until December 30.
Iyer will join Mumbai’s Vijay Hazare Trophy squad in Jaipur on January 2 and is likely to play matches on January 3 and January 6. He has been batting well in the nets without discomfort and recently batted for nearly an hour in Mumbai as part of his recovery.
He had missed the ODI series against South Africa and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy due to a blunt abdominal injury. His return strengthens India’s middle order, especially at the No. 4 position, and helps the team plan ahead for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11 in Vadodara. The squad is expected to be announced in the first week of January after final clearances. Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are likely to be rested, while Ishan Kishan’s form presents a selection decision for the second wicketkeeper spot.
When Will the India ODI Squad Be Announced?
The India ODI squad for the New Zealand series is expected to be announced on January 3 or January 4, as per reports. The series will be India’s first assignment of 2026 and will include three ODIs and five T20Is at home.
Shubman Gill, who missed the South Africa ODI series due to injury, has fully recovered and has resumed batting practice. He is expected to return to the squad and lead the side in the ODI series. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are also expected to feature and anchor the batting.
Shreyas Iyer is being considered for a return, but his inclusion is not fully confirmed after he suffered an injury while fielding during the Australia tour. A final decision will depend on fitness clearance.
In ODIs, India and New Zealand have played 118 matches. India have won 60 games, New Zealand have won 50, one match ended in a tie, and seven matches produced no result.
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