Because the Indian cricket workforce pivots towards a busy 2026 schedule, former opener and commentator Aakash Chopra has formally weighed in along with his most well-liked 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The collection, which kicks off on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, serves as an important constructing block for the ODI setup following a extremely aggressive 2025. Chopra’s choice focuses on a inflexible mix of returning stalwarts and in-form kids, although his categorical exclusion of Sanju Samson and Mohammed Shami might have been level of dialogue.
Aakash Chopra picks Indian squad for New Zealand ODI collection
Aakash Chopra on the return of captain Shubman Gill and the highest order
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra outlined a squad that prioritizes continuity and established roles over experimental modifications. He was definitive in regards to the return of Shubman Gill to the captaincy and the construction of the highest three, which leaves no room for latest century-maker Yashasvi Jaiswal within the beginning XI.
“Gill is match and accessible, and he can be again as a captain. There can be no questions there. Rohit Sharma can be seen opening with him, which suggests Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a century, however he must wait. At No. 3, Participant of the Collection Virat Kohli, who’s trying like a person on a mission.” Chopra mentioned.
Center order options and the KL Rahul issue
Chopra additionally addressed the middle-order hole left by Shreyas Iyer, who is predicted to overlook the collection. He elaborated on the doubtless replacements, emphasizing the necessity for consistency and rewarding those that have been a part of the system.
“The replace on Shreyas Iyer is that he received’t be accessible for this collection. So don’t be shocked if his title is just not there, and if his title is just not there, Ruturaj continues at No. 4. At No. 5, I’ve bought KL Rahul as a wicketkeeper, as a batter, and perhaps as a vice-captain within the facet.” the previous Indian cricketer added.
Washington Sundar’s function and choice logic
A good portion of Chopra’s evaluation targeted on sustaining depth in each the bowling and batting departments. He emphasised that regardless of latest rotations, gamers like Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma present the required stability to the squad’s construction.
“After that, there’s a place for Washington Sundar in my workforce. Though Washi didn’t play the final match and Tilak Varma performed in his place, I’ll preserve each Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma as a result of continuity is necessary.” the ex-Indian opener said.
The all-rounder debate and Mohammed Siraj’s recall
Chopra’s issues for the squad centered on a shift within the spin hierarchy and a requirement for the return of seasoned tempo. He famous that latest performances have positioned Axar Patel forward of veteran Ravindra Jadeja within the race for long-term ODI spots.
“After that, there’s a name that who must be taken between Axar and Jaddu… Jaddu’s efficiency was barely fifty-fifty within the final collection. So I feel Axar Patel is forward of him within the race from a long-term perspective. One between the 2, not each of them. After that, I’m saying convey Siraj again. It’s sufficient now.” the cricketer-turned commentator defined.
Additionally READ: IND vs NZ 2026: India’s 15 member squad for the ODI series against New Zealand – Predicted
Harshit Rana’s rise and the seam division
Chopra highlighted the emergence of Harshit Rana as a main tempo choice, noting his match-winning contributions in latest excursions. He believes Rana has earned his spot by means of constant performances, notably in high-pressure conditions in opposition to South Africa.
“After that, I’ve stored Harshit Rana. He received you a sport. He did nicely in Sydney and his efficiency in opposition to South Africa was additionally good. After that, I’m saying convey Siraj again… So Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh. That is the story near my XI.” the New Delhi born cricketer highlighted.
Spin depth: The Kuldeep Yadav contingency
When discussing the bowling selection, Chopra included Kuldeep Yadav because the X-factor who can alter to the situations of the pitch. He famous that Kuldeep stays the first choice if the floor gives any help to spin or if dew is just not an anticipated issue.
“Kuldeep Yadav can are available in that if there isn’t any dew. You possibly can drop a quick bowler and play Kuldeep Yadav. So at No. 12, I’ve bought Kuldeep Yadav. After that, I’ll preserve Prasidh Krishna within the workforce. I would like an additional quick bowler.” Chopra mentioned.
The Rishabh Pant inclusion and bench power
Lastly, Chopra addressed the backup wicketkeeping slot, defending his selection of Rishabh Pant over different contenders. He argued that Pant’s pedigree justifies his spot, even amidst a “ruckus” relating to different potential candidates like Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel.
“At No. 14, I’ll preserve Rishabh Pant, though there was a ruckus as to why Rishabh Pant must be stored, that Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel may be stored. You possibly can preserve anybody, but additionally inform what Rishabh Pant’s mistake is. I’m not choosing Varun Chakaravarthy. I get Yashasvi Jaiswal, simply in case you want him.” Chopra concluded.
Aakash Chopra’s Indian squad for NZ ODI collection : Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Tilak Varma, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Additionally READ: Reason why Shreyas Iyer will miss the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand
