India have ended their calendar year 2025 on a high after a clinical series victory against South Africa. Although India's immediate focus in 2026 is the T20 World Cup, the preparation for the ODI World Cup 2027
continues in full fledge.
Shubman Gill is set to lead the Indian team in the World Cup 2027, with the veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also in the fray, which may well be their India swansong.
Rohit Sharma had a fantastic outing against Australia, while Virat Kohli showcased his might against South Africa. As the 2027 ODI World Cup approaches, team India will be in multiple 50-over series in 2026.
How many ODI series will India play in 2026?
As per the BCCI schedule, they will play in six series, four at home and two away.
How many matches will India play in 2026?
In total, the Indian team is earmarked to play 18 ODIs in the calendar year 2026.
India ODI Schedule in 2026
January 2026 - New Zealand ODI Series (Home)
The new year will begin with a home ODI series against New Zealand. The Kiwis have been a formidable opponent in recent ICC tournaments, making this series significant in India's World Cup preparations.
1st ODI - Jan 11 (Vadodara)
2nd ODI - Jan 14 (Rajkot)
3rd ODI - Jan 18 (Indore)
June 2026 - Afghanistan ODI Series (Home)
India will host Afghanistan for a three-match ODI series in June 2026. Afghanistan, with its strong spin attack, will provide a different kind of challenge, especially in subcontinent conditions.
July 2026 - Tour of England (Away)
A crucial away series will see India traveling to England for three ODIs. Playing in English conditions will be an excellent test for the Indian batting lineup, given the swing-friendly nature of the pitches.
1st ODI - July 14 (Birmingham)
2nd ODI - July 16 (Cardiff)
3rd ODI - July 19 (Lord's, London)
September-October 2026 - West Indies ODI Series (Home)
India will host West Indies for another three-match ODI series in September-October 2026. The Caribbean side, known for its power hitters, will offer a competitive challenge.
October-November 2026 - New Zealand ODI Series (Away)
India will once again face New Zealand in an away ODI series in late 2026. This will be another opportunity for both teams to refine their squads ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
December 2026 - Sri Lanka ODI Series (Home)
To conclude their ODI schedule before the World Cup year, India will host Sri Lanka in December 2026. The subcontinental rivalry always brings out intense cricket, making it a crucial series to fine-tune strategies.
India's ODI Schedule in 2026 - At a Glance
| Month/Year | Opponent | Venue | No. of ODIs |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | New Zealand | Home | 3 |
| June 2026 | Afghanistan | Home | 3 |
| July 2026 | England | Away | 3 |
| Sep-Oct 2026 | West Indies | Home | 3 |
| Oct-Nov 2026 | New Zealand | Away | 3 |
| December 2026 | Sri Lanka | Home | 3 |
