New Zealand is planning to tour India for a complete white-ball series, which will include a 3-match ODI and a 5-match T20I series, with a focus on preparing for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, also happening in India.
India vs New Zealand Series Set as Key World Cup Prep
As recently reported by the Times of India (TOI), the tour is expected to feature 8 matches. The venues are yet to be decided, as the tour has only been teased recently. New Zealand’s primary focus will be to prepare for Indian conditions and adapt well ahead of the T20 World Cup. The 5 T20I matches will also be a huge challenge and preparation phase for India.
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According to reports, the series may take place between January 11 and January 30, 2026 likely beginning on or around those dates before the T20 World Cup starts. Meanwhile, the 3-match ODI series is expected to serve as the curtain-raiser for the tour. A bonus for fans: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could feature in the ODI series.
White-Ball Focus as India Aim to Bounce Back vs New Zealand
The last time New Zealand toured India was for a Test series, which drastically impacted India’s momentum in the 2023–2025 WTC cycle. A 0–3 loss in that series played a major role in India missing out on the WTC final, finishing third on the points table. This time, no Test matches are expected, as the focus for both teams is completely on white-ball cricket.
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India will be looking for revenge and to dent New Zealand’s confidence through this series on the road to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Stay tuned for more updates on the series.
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