The spotlight returns to Indian cricket as India and New Zealand get ready to begin a fresh white-ball chapter with the first ODI at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on January 11. The three-match ODI series will be followed by five T20Is, making this tour an important test for both sides as they plan for the future.
For Indian fans, this series carries added excitement as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma make their return to the ODI setup. Their presence strengthens India’s batting line-up and brings experience back into the squad at a crucial stage.
Vadodara Weather Update for 1st ODI
Weather conditions are expected to favor uninterrupted cricket in Vadodara. Forecasts suggest clear skies throughout the day, with no rain threat looming over the match. Daytime temperatures are likely to stay around 28°C, while cooler conditions will set in during the evening, with temperatures dipping close to 13°C.
Such conditions should help players settle quickly and allow fans to enjoy a full 50-over contest.
Pitch and Match Conditions at BCA Stadium
The BCA Stadium traditionally offers a balanced surface, assisting batters early while allowing bowlers to come into play as the match progresses. Teams may look to bat first and put runs on the board, especially under clear conditions.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series Begins in Vadodara
India and New Zealand have shared a competitive rivalry in limited-overs cricket, and this series promises another closely fought contest. Shubman Gill will lead the Indian side, while Michael Bracewell takes charge of the New Zealand squad. Both teams will look to start strong and build momentum early in the series.
The matches also serve as a stepping stone towards long-term planning, with the 2027 ODI World Cup firmly in focus for team management.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Back in Action
The return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli adds star power and stability to India’s batting order. Fans eagerly await how the senior duo performs after time away from ODIs. Their form could shape India’s approach as the team blends experience with young talent ahead of future global tournaments.
India vs New Zealand Squads for ODI Series
India squad: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Shreyas Iyer (vc), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
New Zealand squad: Michael Bracewell (c), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway (wk), Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay (wk), Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young.
With clear weather, returning stars, and World Cup ambitions driving both teams, the opening ODI in Vadodara sets the stage for an exciting series.
