The first One-Day International (ODI) of the New Zealand tour of India 2026 was played on 11 January 2026 at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara, delivering a high-quality contest that lived up to expectations. In a competitive encounter, India defeated New Zealand by four wickets, successfully chasing a challenging target to take a 1–0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
The match showcased strong batting performances, disciplined bowling spells, and crucial partnerships, setting the tone for the remainder of the tour.
ODI Squad Announced by BCCI
Ahead of the series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India announced a balanced ODI squad, blending experienced campaigners with promising young talent.
India ODI Squad
Rohit Sharma
Shubman Gill (Captain)
Virat Kohli
Shreyas Iyer
KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
Ravindra Jadeja
Washington Sundar
Harshit Rana
Kuldeep Yadav
Mohammed Siraj
Prasidh Krishna
The selection reflected India’s focus on stability at the top and flexibility in bowling options.
Playing XI – 1st ODI
India Playing XI
Rohit Sharma
Shubman Gill (c)
Virat Kohli
Shreyas Iyer
KL Rahul (wk)
Ravindra Jadeja
Washington Sundar
Harshit Rana
Kuldeep Yadav
Mohammed Siraj
Prasidh Krishna
New Zealand Playing XI
Devon Conway
Henry Nicholls
Kane Williamson
Daryl Mitchell
Tom Latham (wk)
Michael Bracewell
Glenn Phillips
Kyle Jamieson
Mitchell Santner
Lockie Ferguson
Trent Boult
Toss and Match Conditions
India won the toss and elected to field first, banking on early movement for fast bowlers and the advantage of chasing under lights. The pitch offered good bounce and carry, while the outfield was fast, promising a high-scoring contest.
New Zealand Innings: 300/8 in 50 Overs
Batting first, New Zealand posted 300 for 8, building their innings through solid top-order partnerships and a controlled middle phase.
Batting Performance – New Zealand
Devon Conway: 51 runs
Henry Nicholls: 50 runs
Daryl Mitchell: 47 runs
Glenn Phillips: 39 runs
The visitors maintained a steady run rate but lost momentum slightly in the final overs due to disciplined Indian bowling.
Bowling Performance – India
Prasidh Krishna: 2 wickets
Harshit Rana: 2 wickets
Mohammed Siraj: 1 wicket
Kuldeep Yadav: 1 wicket
India’s bowlers kept things tight at the death, preventing New Zealand from crossing the 320 mark.
India Chase: 306/6 in 49 Overs
Chasing a target of 301, India displayed composure and depth, despite a few tense moments in the middle overs.
Batting Performance – India
Virat Kohli: 93 runs
Shubman Gill: 56 runs
Shreyas Iyer: 49 runs
KL Rahul: 29* (not out)
Harshit Rana: 29 runs
Virat Kohli anchored the chase with a masterclass in timing and shot selection, ensuring stability while others played supporting roles.
Bowling Performance – New Zealand
Kyle Jamieson: 4 wickets
Trent Boult: 1 wicket
Mitchell Santner: 1 wicket
Despite Jamieson’s impactful spell, India’s batting depth proved decisive in the final stages.
Player of the Match
Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings of 93 runs, which formed the backbone of India’s successful chase.
Full Match Scorecard Summary
New Zealand Innings
Total: 300/8 (50 overs)
Top Scorers: Conway 51, Nicholls 50
Best Bowlers (India): Prasidh Krishna 2 wickets, Harshit Rana 2 wickets
India Innings
Total: 306/6 (49 overs)
Top Scorers: Kohli 93, Gill 56, Iyer 49
Best Bowler (NZ): Jamieson 4 wickets
Result: India won by 4 wickets
Series Status: India lead 1–0
Match Analysis and Key Takeaways
India’s top order provided stability under pressure
Kohli’s innings highlighted the value of experience in chases
New Zealand’s total was competitive but slightly under par
India’s bowling at the death proved crucial
The match reinforced India’s strength in home conditions while highlighting New Zealand’s resilience and fighting spirit.
Upcoming Match Schedule – ODI Series
2nd ODI: 14 January 2026 – Rajkot
3rd ODI: 18 January 2026 – Indore
The series now moves to Rajkot, where New Zealand will look to level the contest, while India aim to extend their lead.
Conclusion
The 1st ODI of the New Zealand tour of India 2026 delivered a complete cricketing spectacle, combining skill, strategy, and temperament. India’s successful chase, led by Virat Kohli, provided an ideal start to the series, while New Zealand showed enough promise to keep the contest alive.
With two matches remaining, the series promises more intense battles and high-quality cricket.
Note:- Image used is AI generated.