India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI: Preview, H2H stats, when and where to watch in India?
International cricket is set to return in India as the "Men in Blue" face New Zealand in the first ODI at BCA Stadium, Kotambi, on January 11, 2026. Shreyas Iyer is set to return to cricket.
Last Updated: 04.05 PM, Jan 10, 2026
International cricket returns to the spotlight in India tomorrow as the "Men in Blue" host New Zealand for the first of three One Day Internationals (ODIs) at the BCA Stadium, Kotambi. This series marks a significant moment for Indian cricket fans, as it serves as the first international assignment of 2026 and features the much-anticipated return of legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the ODI fold.
For India, the series presents a delicate balance of managing workloads ahead of the T20 World Cup next month while building on their dominant form in the 2025 ODI series. New Zealand, led by Michael Bracewell, enters the series looking to erase the memories of their previous white-ball tours to India and find their footing in subcontinent conditions.
Match details
Match: India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI
Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026.
Tine: 1.30 PM IST
Venue: BCA Stadium, Kotambi
Where can I watch the India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI match online?
Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI match on JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium.
Head-to-head stats
| Metric | Details |
| Total Matches | 120 |
| India Won | 62 |
| New Zealand Won | 50 |
| Tied/No Result | 8 |
| Record in India | India: 31 wins, NZ: 8 wins |
Preview
The primary headline is the return of India’s veteran duo. After playing a few matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, Rohit and Kohli are back to stabilize a top order that has been experimental in their absence. With Shubman Gill resuming his captaincy duties after recovering from a neck injury, India’s batting lineup looks formidable once again.
However, the hosts are not at full strength. Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have been rested as part of the BCCI’s workload management program, prioritizing their fitness for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Team news and possible XIs
India
Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is back in the mix after clearing fitness protocols at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. He is expected to reclaim his No. 4 spot. In the bowling department, Mohammed Siraj returns to lead the attack alongside young sensation Harshit Rana, who impressed during the domestic season.
New Zealand
The Black Caps are missing several key regulars due to injuries sustained during their home summer. Captain Michael Bracewell will rely heavily on the experience of Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell.
Fans should keep an eye on India-born spinner Adithya Ashok, who has been named in the squad and could play a vital role on the Vadodara surface.