India Focuses on 2027 World Cup Prep with Kohli, Rohit Return

India will begin a five-match ODI series against New Zealand at Eden Park, focusing on preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is set to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

The return of experienced batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli provides an opportunity for the team to evaluate its batting combinations ahead of the tournament.

Shubman Gill, who will lead India, will have a chance to shape the side's plans with less than a year remaining until the 2027 World Cup.

India enters the ODI series after winning the five-match T20I series 3-2, with New Zealand fighting back in the final two matches to tie the series.

Eden Park, known for its bounce and wind, is expected to favor seamers in the 50-over format, offering a different challenge compared to the flatter T20I pitch.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged the challenge posed by India's experienced batting lineup, particularly with Kohli and Sharma back in the side.

Santner emphasized the need for his bowling unit to maintain discipline and build pressure over long periods, especially if the conditions assist the bowlers.

India will be without Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, relying on a younger pace attack to play a key role in the series.

Gill highlighted the importance of taller fast bowlers who can generate bounce, especially as the ball ages and offers less movement.

The Indian captain also noted the flexibility of batting positions in the middle order, with Axar Patel and KL Rahul among the options depending on match situations.

Gill explained that positions five, six, and seven are more about the number of overs remaining and the game situation rather than fixed positions.

Conditions at Eden Park, including a late start and potential movement under lights, will be a factor in the series, according to Gill.

New Zealand will be without Devon Conway for the opening match due to a concussion suffered during a fielding drill, with Matt Henry's availability also uncertain.

India is expected to have Shreyas Iyer return to the playing XI, while Axar Patel could strengthen the spin-bowling and batting options.

The series will provide both teams with an opportunity to test their combinations and assess readiness for the 2027 World Cup.