Shreyas Iyer returns, no Hardik and Bumrah as BCCI announces squad for New Zealand ODIs

The BCCI has announced a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11 in Vadodara. In a significant move, Shubman Gill has been retained as the captain for India’s first ODI assignment of 2026. The squad marks the return of vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, though his inclusion is subject to a final fitness clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE).

The selection committee has decided to rest key senior players Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah as part of their long-term workload management strategy leading up to the T20 World Cup. The BCCI clarified that Hardik has not yet been cleared to bowl his full quota of 10 overs in a match, necessitating a cautious approach. In his absence, young sensation Nitish Kumar Reddy has been drafted in as the seam-bowling all-rounder.

The pace department will be led by the returning Mohammed Siraj, supported by Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana. Interestingly, veteran Mohammed Shami has been left out. The spin attack looks formidable with the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar. The batting lineup remains powerhouse-heavy with stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli joining dynamic youngsters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul will handle the wicketkeeping duties, providing depth and versatility to the middle order. The selectors have focused on a balanced side that offers both explosive power at the top and reliable all-round options. This series is viewed as a crucial testing ground for India to solidify their combinations for the upcoming ICC tournaments later this year.