All eyes will be on former captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as India faces New Zealand in the first ODI at Kotambi International Stadium. This game marks the venue’s first men’s ODI, with the last match held here in 2010 between the same teams. Kohli and Sharma, having retired from T20 and Test formats, are returning after the South Africa series.
This series could be the last chance to see Kohli and Sharma in Indian colors until July, being the final ODI series before the T20 World Cup and IPL. Shubman Gill, back as ODI captain, aims for his first series win after missing previous series. New Zealand’s batting will rely on Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, while India’s strong lineup poses a challenge for the visitors.
Both Kohli and Sharma have been in top form, with Kohli averaging 151 against South Africa. Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer returns after a spleen injury, aiming to continue his dominance at No. 4. New Zealand’s pace attack, led by Kyle Jamieson, faces a tough test against India’s batting prowess. India, the favorites, aim to extend their winning streak against New Zealand in ODIs.
