Rohit-Virat Together Again! India Predicted XI For 1st ODI vs New Zealand

India Predicted XI For 1st ODI vs New Zealand: A fresh chapter in Indian cricket is set to unfold this afternoon as India gear up for the first ODI against New Zealand, with all eyes on a new leader and a familiar, formidable top order. Shubman Gill is expected to walk out as captain, while the iconic duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headline the batting at the top.

The match will be played at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, with the first ball scheduled for 1:30 PM (local time). The buzz around the venue is palpable — new leadership, big names, and a high-voltage contest against the Black Caps. What more could fans ask for?

Gill’s Big Test as Captain

This ODI marks a significant moment for Shubman Gill. Calm, classy, and supremely consistent, the young opener now carries the added responsibility of leading India in a 50-over contest. Can Gill the batter seamlessly blend with Gill the captain? That’s one storyline fans will be keenly tracking.

Rohit–Kohli Reunion at the Top

India are expected to go with experience up front. Rohit Sharma is set to open, with Virat Kohli locking in the No. 3 spot — a combination that has delivered countless memories over the years. Their presence brings instant stability and a sense of assurance, especially in the early overs.

KL Rahul Gets the Gloves

With Rishabh Pant unavailable for this game, the wicketkeeping duties are likely to be handled by KL Rahul. Reliable behind the stumps and flexible with the bat, Rahul adds balance to the middle order.

Middle-Order Muscle and All-Round Options

Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is tipped to anchor the middle order, provided he clears fitness checks. Alongside him, the presence of Ravindra Jadeja and the in-form Nitish Kumar Reddy gives India depth, flexibility, and serious all-round firepower.

Also Read: Rishabh Pant Out Dhruv Jurel In: What Really Happened at India’s Practice Session?

Pace, Spin, and Variety in the Attack

India’s bowling unit looks well-rounded. The pace trio of Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana offers speed and swing, while Kuldeep Yadav is expected to spearhead the spin attack with his wrist-spin magic.

India Predicted XI For 1st ODI vs New Zealand

1. Shubman Gill (Captain)

2. Rohit Sharma

3. Virat Kohli

4. KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)

5. Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain)*

6. Ravindra Jadeja

7. Nitish Kumar Reddy

8. Harshit Rana

9. Kuldeep Yadav

10. Mohammed Siraj

11. Arshdeep Singh

*Subject to fitness clearance

India’s Full ODI 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, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The Big Question

A new captain, seasoned superstars, and a confident squad — will India strike the perfect balance on Day 1? As the sun shines over Vadodara this afternoon, expect drama, flair, and a strong statement from the Men in Blue.

Stay tuned — the ODI season just got real.