New Zealand have named separate squads for the first three and final two matches of their five-match ODI series against India, with Mitchell Santner appointed captain for both groups.
The series is scheduled to begin on November 4, 2026, at Eden Park in Auckland. The split-squad arrangement will allow New Zealand to manage player workloads, assess their bench strength and prepare for upcoming international commitments as they continue building towards the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.
Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert have been included in the squad for the final two matches. Meanwhile, Rachin Ravindra has been selected for the opening three ODIs following his recovery from a shoulder injury that kept him out of the preceding T20I series against India.
New Zealand ODI Squad for India Series 2026
New Zealand have selected 14 players for the first three ODIs and 13 players for the final two matches.
New Zealand Squad for the First Three ODIs
No. | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
1 | Mitchell Santner (C) | All-rounder |
2 | Michael Bracewell | All-rounder |
3 | Mark Chapman | Batter |
4 | Devon Conway | Wicketkeeper-batter |
5 | Jacob Duffy | Fast bowler |
6 | Matt Henry | Fast bowler |
7 | Kyle Jamieson | Fast bowler |
8 | Tom Latham (WK) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
9 | Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
10 | Glenn Phillips | All-rounder |
11 | Rachin Ravindra | All-rounder |
12 | Nathan Smith | All-rounder |
13 | Will Young | Batter |
14 | Blair Tickner | Fast bowler |
New Zealand Squad for the Fourth and Fifth ODIs
No. | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
1 | Mitchell Santner (C) | All-rounder |
2 | Finn Allen | Batter |
3 | Michael Bracewell | All-rounder |
4 | Mark Chapman | Batter |
5 | Kristian Clarke | Fast bowler |
6 | Jacob Duffy | Fast bowler |
7 | Matt Fisher | Fast bowler |
8 | Lockie Ferguson | Fast bowler |
9 | Mitch Hay (WK) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
10 | Nick Kelly | Batter |
11 | Tim Seifert (WK) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
12 | Blair Tickner | Fast bowler |
13 | Will Young | Batter |
Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert Included for Final Two ODIs
The inclusion of Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert strengthens New Zealand's options for the final two matches of the series.
Allen offers an aggressive batting option at the top of the order, while Ferguson adds pace and experience to the bowling attack. Seifert provides another wicketkeeping option and additional batting depth.
Their inclusion will give the team management an opportunity to evaluate different combinations against India as New Zealand continue preparations for the next ODI World Cup.
Rachin Ravindra Returns for Opening Three Matches
Rachin Ravindra has been named in the squad for the first three ODIs after recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during a promotional shoot.
The all-rounder's return is a boost for New Zealand, given his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. His performances could play an important role in the team's plans during the opening leg of the series.
Ravindra missed the preceding T20I series against India because of the injury. His inclusion provides New Zealand with another left-handed batting option and a useful bowling resource.
Why Have New Zealand Named Two Separate Squads?
New Zealand's decision to select two different squads reflects their approach to workload management and preparation for upcoming international fixtures.
The split also gives the selectors an opportunity to assess additional players at ODI level while managing the commitments of those required for subsequent Test matches.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, the series against India will provide a valuable opportunity to test combinations against strong opposition. The five matches could help the management identify players capable of making important contributions in the longer-term campaign.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2026 Schedule
Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
1st ODI | November 4, 2026 | Auckland |
2nd ODI | November 7, 2026 | Wellington |
3rd ODI | November 10, 2026 | Hamilton |
4th ODI | November 13, 2026 | Mount Maunganui |
5th ODI | November 15, 2026 | Mount Maunganui |
The series will begin in Auckland before moving to Wellington and Hamilton. Mount Maunganui will host the final two matches.
Final Verdict
New Zealand's decision to announce separate squads for the India ODI series provides flexibility as the team balances immediate results with longer-term preparation.
Mitchell Santner will lead both groups, while Rachin Ravindra's return strengthens the squad for the opening matches. The inclusion of Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert for the final two ODIs adds further options for the visitors.
The series will be an important test for New Zealand as they continue preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup and assess their depth against India.
