The much-talked-about “Ro-Ko” phenomenon—fuelled by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s continued dominance—has now arrived in Rajkot, where anticipation is at its peak. A packed Niranjan Shah Stadium is expected on Tuesday, continuing the nationwide excitement seen since the promotional campaign began last October.
Interestingly, the surge of interest in this ODI series has sparked renewed enthusiasm for the 50-over format, previously considered to be losing its charm. Full stadiums, strong viewership, and rising commercial momentum all suggest that the combined star power of Rohit and Kohli has played a major role in reviving the format.
Both senior players show no signs of slowing down despite being well into their 30s. Kohli has been in sublime form—his innings in Baroda highlighted yet another record-chasing performance, though he narrowly missed a century. Rohit, too, has remained aggressive at the top, quickly dismissing suggestions that he had altered his high-intent approach from the 2023 World Cup. His cameo of 26 off 29, including three fours and two sixes, reinforced that he remains sharp and impactful even after long breaks between matches. His ODI record in Rajkot—65, 42, and 81—also reflects a strong comfort level at this venue.
India lead the three-match series 1–0, putting them in a strong position to secure yet another ODI series victory at home. But the on-field contest is only one part of the narrative. Behind the scenes, questions persist regarding selection strategy and squad planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
One of the more surprising choices in the first ODI was the omission of Nitish Kumar Reddy, who is expected to play a key all-round role in India’s long-term plans. Unless there is absolute confidence in Hardik Pandya being fully fit for 2027, leaving Nitish out seemed a puzzling decision.
Washington Sundar’s selection for the first ODI indicated the team management’s trust in him as a third spinner, a sixth bowling option, and a lower-order batter. However, with Sundar injured, Nitish Kumar Reddy is likely to return to the XI on Wednesday. Newcomers Ayush Badoni and Dhruv Jurel, who were drafted in due to injuries to Washington and Rishabh Pant respectively, may still have to wait for their international debuts.
Match Details
Where: Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
Team News
India
Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.
New Zealand
Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Zakary Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Adithya Ashok.
Did You Know?
Quotes
When: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — 1:30 PM IST
The New Zealand team—led by Michael Bracewell—may be a second-string side, but they showed in Baroda that they can compete strongly. India, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, will still enter as heavy favourites. Fans can expect another high-scoring contest and a packed stadium.
Ayush Badoni has joined the squad as Sundar’s replacement but is unlikely to debut. India are expected to bring back Nitish Kumar Reddy, with the remaining players from the previous XI likely to retain their spots.
Probable XI:
New Zealand fell slightly short in Baroda, needing better consolidation in the middle overs. Kyle Jamieson leads the bowling unit but needs stronger support from Kristian Clarke, Zakary Foulkes, and others.
Probable XI:
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Average first-innings score in Rajkot ODIs is 322.
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New Zealand have never won a bilateral ODI series in India (0 out of 7).
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They have won only 8 of 40 completed ODIs in India.
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Their nine-match winning streak post-Champions Trophy 2025 ended in the previous ODI.
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Since 2016, India have lost just two home bilateral ODI series—both to Australia.
Henry Nicholls on ODI importance:
“With fewer one-day matches between major events, every series becomes more meaningful. Many of us have been playing List-A cricket at home, so we’re prepared and excited for these opportunities.”
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak on Badoni’s selection:
“He has been performing consistently, including for India A. With Sundar injured, we needed someone who could bowl a few overs if required. That’s why Badoni was selected.”
