India kicked off their three-match ODI series against New Zealand at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara with a significant milestone: Shubman Gill captaining the Indian side in an ODI on home soil for the first time. After winning the toss, Gill opted to bowl first, factoring in the surface and early conditions.

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India fielded a well-balanced XI featuring senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Siraj. However, the hosts suffered a setback before the match as first-choice wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was ruled out of the series following an injury sustained during a net session. The BCCI named Dhruv Jurel as his replacement.

New Zealand, meanwhile, handed a debut to fast bowler Kristian Clarke.

India Playing XI:
Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma rally behind Shubman Gill

While the spotlight remained firmly on the young captain, the Indian dressing room reflected strong leadership support from the senior duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Just before the start of play, Kohli was seen delivering an animated pep talk to the squad, a moment that appeared to calm nerves and reinforce confidence, especially for Gill stepping into a leadership role at home.

Rohit Sharma, too, played a hands-on role on the field. In the opening over, he was spotted guiding Mohammed Siraj on his run-up, offering insights on line and length, a subtle yet powerful display of on-field leadership that complemented Gill’s captaincy.

Throughout the early phases of the match, both Kohli and Rohit were actively involved, sharing experience, offering encouragement, and ensuring the team stayed composed and focused.

With Gill leading from the front and seasoned leaders backing him, India will be keen to set the tone for the 2026 cricket calendar with a strong start.

RO-KO brings form and firepower

India’s confidence is further boosted by the red-hot form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli heading into the series. Kohli arrives after a sensational ODI series against South Africa, where he amassed 302 runs in three matches at a staggering average of 151, including back-to-back centuries.

Rohit, too, looked in sublime touch, scoring 146 runs and providing India with brisk starts at the top of the order.

Their form ensures Gill is supported not just with leadership guidance, but also with match-winning performances in the middle, giving India a perfect blend of youth and experience against New Zealand.