New Zealand Cricket has revealed its squads for the upcoming white-ball tour of India in January 2026, naming separate teams for the three-match ODI series and the five-match T20I series. The announcement has drawn attention for a mix of resting, notable absences, and new opportunities, as the Black Caps balance workload management with preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
The tour begins with the ODI series from January 11, followed by the T20I leg starting January 21. The T20Is will serve
as New Zealand’s final opportunity to fine-tune combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. The Kiwis are placed in Group D alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, Canada, and the UAE.
No place for Kane Williamson in ODI team
For the ODI series, regular captain Mitchell Santner has been rested, with all-rounder Michael Bracewell handed leadership duties. Several senior players, including Kane Williamson, Matt Henry, Mark Chapman, and Rachin Ravindra, have also been rested or ruled out. Williamson’s absence, in particular, stands out, with New Zealand Cricket confirming that the former captain is unavailable due to his SA20 commitments after being signed by Durban Super Giants as a replacement player.
Notably, the team has been affected by a couple of injuries. Nathan Smith (side), Blair Tickner (shoulder), and Mark Chapman (ankle) are continuing their respective rehab programs, while Ben Sears remains in recovery following his stint in Melbourne. Despite these absences, names such as Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, and Will Young retain their places.
Meanwhile, Jayden Lennox has earned his maiden international call-up. The batter has been rewarded for his consistent domestic performances, and head coach Rob Walter emphasized that Lennox has been on the management’s radar for some time, citing his strong New Zealand A experience and white-ball form as reasons for his inclusion. However, the T20I squad will witness Santner return to captain the team, which includes Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra.
The ODI series will be played in Vadodara (January 11), Rajkot (January 14), and Indore (January 18). The T20Is will follow in Nagpur (January 21), with subsequent matches on January 23, 25, 28, and 31 across different venues.
