India and New Zealand will face off in a three-match ODI series starting 11 January 2026 at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara. Ahead of the series, reports suggest that BCCI may drop wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant from the squad. Pant, who is also not part of the T20 team, could be replaced by Ishan Kishan, instead of Sanju Samson.

Ishan Kishan in Focus

According to India Today, the Senior Men’s Selection Committee is considering resting Pant for the last domestic ODI series of the 2025–26 season. Kishan, who was recently included in the ODI World Cup squad and played in the T20 series against New Zealand, is currently in excellent form in domestic cricket.

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Kishan made headlines by scoring a quick century off just 33 balls for Jharkhand against Karnataka on 24 January 2025. His consistent domestic performance has strengthened his case for inclusion as Pant’s replacement. Kishan hasn’t played an ODI for India since 11 October 2023, but domestic form makes him the frontrunner.

Shreyas Iyer Set to Return

India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer had missed the recent ODI series against South Africa due to injury sustained during the Australia tour on 25 October 2025. He has now resumed training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. His inclusion in the ODI squad for the New Zealand series will depend on fitness and final medical clearance.

With Pant potentially out, Kishan’s opportunity could provide India with a strong wicketkeeping option while maintaining depth in batting for the upcoming ODI series.