IND vs NZ 2025: Selectors Face Big Calls as India Pick ODI Squad vs New Zealand Today
India selectors meet today to finalise the ODI squad vs New Zealand, with big calls on Pant, Shami’s return, and workload management.
India’s selectors are set to finalise the ODI squad against New Zealand today, with several tough calls on the table. This three-match series will be India’s last set of ODIs before attention shifts fully to T20Is and the 2026 T20 World Cup.
One of the biggest talking points is the future of Rishabh Pant in the 50-over side. Pant’s uneven Vijay Hazare Trophy form and lack of ODI chances under head coach Gautam Gambhir have put his place under real pressure.
Team management is reportedly unhappy with Pant’s high-risk batting style in ODIs. At the same time, dropping him without a proper run could invite sharp criticism, especially given his past match-winning ability.
With KL Rahul set to remain the first-choice keeper, Ishan Kishan is currently leading the race to be the back-up option. Kishan’s recent domestic form and safer approach work in his favour.
Pace attack and workload management
Another major decision revolves around Mohammed Shami, who has a strong case for a comeback after picking up eight wickets in four Vijay Hazare matches. With Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya likely to be rested, selectors want fresh legs in the pace group.
This opens the door for youngsters Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh to get extended runs in ODIs, especially with the focus on building depth.
Top-order logjam continues
Despite stunning domestic form, Devdutt Padikkal and Sarfaraz Khan still face a tough fight for places. The top order is already crowded with Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli.
Gill is expected to return alongside Rohit at the top, with Yashasvi Jaiswal as back-up. Kohli remains locked in at No. 3, while Ruturaj Gaikwad is likely to slot into the middle order.
Shreyas Iyer is racing against time at the NCA, undergoing match simulations to prove fitness ahead of selection.
Spin Unit Stays Settled
The spin attack is expected to remain unchanged, with Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav forming the core. Extra attention will be on Kuldeep’s wicket-taking role through the middle overs.
