India's 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa highlighted the exceptional performances of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. They will be seen playing in the series against New Zealand in January 2026.

Last Updated: 10.13 AM, Dec 07, 2025
India's recent 2-1 ODI series victory over South Africa showcased the enduring brilliance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who played pivotal roles in the triumph. Kohli earned Player of the Series honors with standout performances, including consecutive centuries of 135 and 102 in the first two matches, while Sharma contributed two fifties, 57 in the opener and 75 in the decider, despite a quieter 14 in the second game. This series marked their return to ODIs after focusing on limited formats, thrilling fans amid speculation about their futures.
India's immediate next ODI assignment is a three-match series against New Zealand, starting January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, followed by games in Rajkot and Indore.
Both Kohli and Sharma, having retired from Tests and T20Is, are expected to feature prominently as they prioritize the 50-over format.
This home series offers them another platform to build momentum post-South Africa.
| Matches | Date | Venue |
| 1st ODI | 11th January, 2026 | Baroda |
| 2nd ODI | 14th January, 2026 | Rajkot |
| 3rd ODI | 18th January, 2026 | Indore |
Leading to the 2027 ODI World Cup, India's packed calendar includes bilateral series and major tournaments where the duo could reunite.
Key fixtures encompass ODIs against England in July 2026, followed by series against Bangladesh, West Indies, New Zealand and Sri Lanka.
The Asia Cup in early 2027 serves as a crucial dress rehearsal, with approximately 27 ODIs slated before the World Cup.
| Seires | Matches | Dates |
| India vs New Zealand (in India) | 3 | 11-18 January 2026 |
| India vs Afghanistan (in India} | 3 | June 2026 |
| India vs England (in England) | 3 | 14th July 2026-19th July 2026 |
| India vs Bangladesh (in Bangladesh) | 3 | September 2026 |
| India vs West Indies (in West Indies) | 3 | September/October 2026 |
| India vs New Zealand (In New Zealand) | 3 | October/November 2026 |
| India vs Sri Lanka (In India) | 3 | January 2027 |
| Asia Cup 2027 (in Bangladesh) | 2-6 | July 2027 |
| ODI World Cup 2027 (in South Africa | tbd | October-November 2027 |