As the Indian cricket team heads towards a busy schedule of 2026, the former opening batsman and commentator Aakash Chopra has officially selected its preferred 15-man squad for the upcoming Three match ODI series against New ZealandThe series, which will begin in Vadodara on January 11, 2026, serves as a vital building block for the highly competitive ODI setup post 2025, Chopra’s selection focuses on a tight mix of returning veterans and in-form youngsters, although his apparent exclusion sanju samson And Mohammed Shami Could have been a point of discussion.
Aakash Chopra selected Indian team for New Zealand ODI series
Aakash Chopra on the return of captain Shubman Gill and the top order
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra outlined a squad that prioritizes continuity and established roles over experimental changes. He was certain about the return of Shubman Gill Captaincy and a top-three structure that leaves no room for recent century-scorers Yashasvi Jaiswal In the starting XI.
“Gill is fit and available, and he will be back as captain. There will be no question about that. Rohit Sharma will be seen opening with him, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal gets a century, but he will have to wait. At No. 3, there is Player of the Series Virat Kohli, who looks to be on a mission.” Chopra said.
Middle order solution and KL Rahul factor
Chopra also addressed the middle-order gap left by Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to miss the series. He elaborated on possible replacements, emphasizing the need for continuity and rewarding those who have been part of the system.
“The update about Shreyas Iyer is that he will not be available for this series. So don’t be surprised if his name is not in it, and if his name is not there, Ruturaj will continue at No. 4. At No. 5, I have got KL Rahul as a wicketkeeper, as a batsman and probably as the vice-captain in the team.” The former Indian cricketer added.
Washington Sundar’s role and selection rationale
A significant part of Chopra’s analysis focused on maintaining depth in both the bowling and batting departments. He stressed that despite the recent rotation, players like Washington Sundar and Tilak Verma provide the necessary balance to the team composition.
“After that, there is room for Washington Sundar in my team. Although Washi did not play the last match and was replaced by Tilak Verma, I will keep both Washington Sundar and Tilak Verma because consistency is important.” The former Indian opener said.
All-rounder debate and Mohammed Siraj’s return
Chopra’s ideas for the team centered on a change in the spin hierarchy and the demand for the return of experienced pace. He said that recent performances have put Axar Patel ahead of the experienced Ravindra Jadeja in the race for a long-term ODI spot.
“After that, there is a decision as to who should be taken between Axar and Jaddu… Jaddu’s performance in the last series was a bit fifty-fifty. So I think from a long-term perspective Axar Patel is ahead of him in the race. One of the two, not one of the two. After that, I am saying bring Siraj back. Enough is enough.” The cricketer turned commentator explained.
Also read: IND vs NZ 2026: India’s 15-man squad for ODI series against New Zealand – Estimated
The rise of Harshit Rana and the seam department
Chopra highlighted the emergence of Harshit Rana as the primary pace option considering his match-winning contributions in recent tours. He believes Rana has earned his place through consistent performances, especially in high-pressure situations against South Africa.
“After that, I kept Harshit Rana. He wins you a game. He did well in Sydney and his performance against South Africa was also good. After that, I am saying bring Siraj back… So Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh. This is the story of my closer XI.” The New Delhi born cricketer shed light.
Spin depth: Kuldeep Yadav’s contingency
While discussing the bowling variations, Chopra included Kuldeep Yadav as the X-factor who can adjust to the conditions of the pitch. He said that Kuldeep will remain the primary option if the surface provides any support for spin or if dew is not an expected factor.
“If there is no dew then Kuldeep Yadav can come in. You can leave out a fast bowler and play Kuldeep Yadav. So at No. 12, I have taken Kuldeep Yadav. After that, I will keep Prasidh Krishna in the team. I need an extra fast bowler.” Chopra discussed.
Rishabh Pant’s inclusion and bench strength
Finally, Chopra addressed the backup wicketkeeping slot, defending his choice of Rishabh Pant over other contenders. He argued that even amid the “furore” about other potential candidates such as Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel, Pant’s pedigree justifies his place.
“At No. 14, I will keep Rishabh Pant, although there was an uproar as to why Rishabh Pant should be kept, Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel can be kept. You can keep anyone, but also tell what is Rishabh Pant’s fault. I am not picking Varun Chakravarthy. I am taking Yashasvi Jaiswal, just in case you need him.” Chopra concluded.
Aakash Chopra’s Indian team for New Zealand ODI series: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Tilak Verma, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Also read: Reasons why Shreyas Iyer will miss the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand
