365telugu.com online news,January,11th ,2026:After a long hiatus from the 50-over format, Team India is all set to kickstart their 2026 ODI campaign against a revamped New Zealand side at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara this Sunday. While the return of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has energized the fans, the team management faces a selection headache following a late injury setback to star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant.
The Pant Void The biggest talking point ahead of the series opener is the absence of Rishabh Pant. The dynamic southpaw was ruled out of the series after picking up an injury during a training session. This development has paved the way for a “big call” regarding the wicketkeeping duties. Experienced campaigner KL Rahul is the frontrunner to don the gloves, providing much-needed stability to the middle order at the No. 5 spot.
Top Order Firepower Captain Shubman Gill, returning from a short injury break himself, is expected to open the innings alongside the ‘Hitman’ Rohit Sharma. The legendary Virat Kohli will anchor the innings at his trademark No. 3 position. All eyes will also be on Shreyas Iyer, who returns to the ODI setup as vice-captain, likely slotting in at No. 4.
The All-Rounder Equation In the absence of Hardik Pandya, who has been rested, the selectors are likely to test the mettle of emerging seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. Ravindra Jadeja will lead the spin department, while the pace attack is expected to be spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj, supported by Arshdeep Singh and the promising Harshit Rana.
A New Chapter for Vadodara The match marks a historic occasion for the Baroda Cricket Association as the Kotambi Stadium hosts its first-ever men’s international match. The pitch is expected to be a batter’s paradise early on, though dew might play a crucial role under the lights, making the toss a vital factor.
India’s Probable XI: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.