India Begins ODI Series Against New Zealand, Eyes Winning Start in Auckland

India will look to continue their winning momentum when they take on New Zealand in the first ODI at Eden Park, Auckland, on Wednesday. The match marks the beginning of the three-match ODI series, with the visitors aiming to build on their recent success in the T20I format.

India head into the contest after securing a 3-2 victory in the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. The return of experienced batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is expected to strengthen India's batting lineup. Shubman Gill will lead the side in the opening three matches, while Shreyas Iyer is set to captain the team in the final two games.

India will have some concerns in their bowling department, with Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya unavailable for the series and Prasidh Krishna ruled out due to injury. Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav will be among the key bowling options as India prepare for the challenge.

New Zealand, meanwhile, have suffered a setback ahead of the opening encounter. Experienced batter Devon Conway has been ruled out after sustaining a concussion during a training session at Eden Park. Conway collided with teammate Matt Henry while attempting an aerial catch. Both players underwent medical assessments, and Conway was taken to hospital, where a concussion was confirmed. Matt Henry's availability will also be monitored.

The hosts will also miss Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman, who are unavailable due to injuries. Tim Seifert and Henry Nicholls have been added to the squad to strengthen their batting options. Captain Mitchell Santner will lead New Zealand in the series.

The first ODI is scheduled to begin at 7.30 am IST, with the toss at 7 am. Indian viewers can follow the television coverage on Sony Sports Network and live streaming on SonyLIV.

The series will provide both teams with an important opportunity to assess their combinations and strengthen their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.