As the Indian cricket team turns towards a busy 2026 schedule, the former opener and commentator Akash Chopra he was officially drawn with his preferred 15-man squad for the upcoming Three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The series, which begins on January 11, 2026 in Vadodara, acts as an important building block to build the ODIs after the highly competitive 2025. Chopra’s selection focuses on a tough mix of returning stalwarts and in-form youngsters. Sanju Samson and Muhammad Shami could be a point of discussion.
Aakash Chopra picks India squad for New Zealand ODI series
Aakash Chopra, Captain Shubman Gill and on the return of the highest order
In a video shared on her YouTube channel, Chopra described a cast that prefers continuity and established roles over experimental changes. He was adamant about his return Shubman Gill the rank of captain and the structure of the top three leave no room for the creator of the last century Yashasvi Jaiswal start at 11.
“Gill is fit and ready and he will be back as captain. There will be no question about that. Rohit Sharma will appear in the opener with him, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal has scored a century, but he will have to wait. At number 3, Virat Kohli, who looks like the man on a mission, is the Man of the Series.” Chopra said.
Average order solutions and the KL Rahul factor
Chopra also addressed the middle-order void left by Shreyas Iyer, who was expected to miss the series. He elaborated on possible replacements, stressing the importance of consistency and rewarding those who are part of the system.
“The news about Shreyas Iyer is that he won’t be available for this series. So don’t be surprised if he’s not named, and if not, Ruturaj continues at No. 4. At No. 5, I’ve got KL Rahul as wicketkeeper, batsman and maybe vice-captain in the side.” added the former Indian cricketer.
Washington Sundar’s Role and Selection Logic
A significant part of Chopra’s analysis focused on maintaining depth in both the bowling and batting departments. He emphasized that despite the recent rotations, players like Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma provide the necessary balance in the team structure.
“There is room for Washington Sundar in my team after this. Even though Vashi will not play in the last match and Tilak Varma will play in his place, I will keep both Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma as consistency is important.” said the ex-India opener.
Comprehensive debate and the recall of Muhammad Siraj
Chopra’s considerations for the squad centered on a change in the spin hierarchy and a demand to bring back experienced pace. He pointed out that recent performances have put Axar Patel ahead of veteran Ravindra Jadeja in the race for the long-term ODI spots.
“After that, there is a call between Akhar and Jaddu as to who should be picked… In the last series, Jaddu’s performance was a little bit fifty-fifty. So in the long run, I think Axar Patel is ahead of him in the race. Not between the two, but between one. After that, I say bring back Siraj. That’s enough.” the cricketer-turned-commentator explained.
Also READ: IND vs NZ 2026: India’s 15-man squad for ODI series against New Zealand – Predicted
The rise of Harshit Rana and the sewing department
Chopra highlighted the emergence of Harshit Rana as the main pace option, citing his match-winning contributions in recent innings. He believes Rana has earned his place with his consistent performances, especially in high-pressure situations against South Africa.
“After that I kept Harshit Rana. He won you a game. He did well in Sydney and his performance against South Africa was also good. After that, I say bring back Siraj… So Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh. That’s the story around my 11th.” The New Delhi born cricketer was highlighted.
Rotation depth: Kuldeep Yadav likely
While discussing the bowling lineup, Chopra included Kuldeep Yadav as the X-factor who can adapt to pitch conditions. Kuldeep remains the main option if the surface offers any help to the spin or if dew is not an expected factor, he noted.
“If there is no dew, Kuldeep Yadav can come in. You can drop the fast bowler and play Kuldeep Yadav. So in the 12th over, I got Kuldeep Yadav. After that, I will keep Prasidh Krishna in the team. I need an extra fast bowler.” Chopra discussed.
The inclusion of Rishabh Pants and the strength of the bench
Finally, Chopra addressed the backup wicketkeeper slot, defending his choice of Rishabh Pant over other contenders. He argued that Pant’s lineage justified him even amid “confusion” over other potential candidates like Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel.
“I will keep Rishabh Pant at number 14, even though there was a row about why Rishabh Pant should be kept, Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel can be kept. You can keep anyone, but also tell what is wrong with Rishabh Pant. I am not picking Varun Chakaravarthy. I need Yashasvi Jais in him.” Chopra concluded.
Aakash Chopra’s India squad for NZ ODI series: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Tilak Varma, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Also READ: Reason for Shreyas Iyer to miss the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand
