New Delhi, 30 December: Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, the Indian cricket team is set to play a series against New Zealand comprising three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and five T20 matches. Hardik Pandya could be rested for the ODI series against New Zealand.
According to reliable sources, Hardik Pandya had expressed his willingness to participate in the ODI series. However, the team management is considering giving him rest during these matches to ensure he remains fully fit for the upcoming T20 series and the T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, Pandya is expected to play in two of the last three Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Baroda, scheduled on 3 and 8 January against Vidarbha and Chandigarh respectively.
Hardik Pandya last appeared in an ODI on 9 March, playing against New Zealand in the final of the Champions Trophy, where India won the title.
The Indian squad for the New Zealand ODI series has not been announced yet. The selection committee, chaired by Ajit Agarkar, is expected to announce the team soon. Reports suggest that Jasprit Bumrah might also be rested for the ODI series. Additionally, Ishan Kishan may replace Rishabh Pant as the wicketkeeper. Ishan last played an ODI on 11 October 2023 against Afghanistan.
The three ODIs against New Zealand will be held on 11 January in Vadodara, 14 January in Rajkot, and 18 January in Indore.
The five-match T20 series will begin on 21 January in Nagpur, followed by matches on 23 January in Raipur, 25 January in Guwahati, 28 January in Vishakhapatnam, and conclude on 31 January in Thiruvananthapuram.
The T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March.
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My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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