New Zealand announce ODI squad for India series as Lockie Ferguson returns after three years
New Zealand have announced their squads for the five-match ODI series against India, with experienced fast bowler Lockie Ferguson and explosive batter Finn Allen returning to the 50-over setup after last featuring in the format in 2023. Wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert has also been selected for the final two matches, giving the Black Caps additional options as they prepare for an important home series.
The India vs New Zealand ODI series 2026 will run from November 4 to November 15, with Mitchell Santner appointed captain for both squads. The series is part of India’s multi-format tour of New Zealand, which also includes five T20Is and two Test matches.
The selectors have opted for two separate squads rather than keeping the same group throughout all five matches. The first squad will cover the opening three ODIs, while changes will be made for the final two games as some players move towards preparations for the Test series.
Ferguson’s return is among the biggest talking points of the announcement. The experienced quick last played an ODI for New Zealand during the 2023 Cricket World Cup semi-final against India in Mumbai. His comeback gives the home side another pace option against a strong Indian batting line-up.
Finn Allen and Tim Seifert add firepower to New Zealand’s batting
Finn Allen’s inclusion for the final two ODIs gives New Zealand another aggressive batting option. Known for his attacking approach in limited-overs cricket, Allen could provide the kind of quick start that can change the direction of a match within the first 10 overs.
His return also gives the selectors an opportunity to assess his game in the 50-over format against high-quality international opposition. While his T20 performances have attracted plenty of attention, adapting that aggressive style to a longer innings will be an important challenge.
Tim Seifert has also earned a place in the final two matches. His last ODI appearance came during New Zealand’s home series against Pakistan around 18 months ago. The wicketkeeper-batter’s inclusion provides further flexibility in the batting order, with Mitch Hay also named as a wicketkeeping option.
The decision to bring in Allen and Seifert reflects New Zealand’s plan to test more players before the next ODI World Cup. With the 2027 tournament approaching, the selectors will be keen to identify players who can perform consistently against top international sides.
Rachin Ravindra returns after shoulder injury
Rachin Ravindra is another important name in New Zealand’s selection announcement. The all-rounder missed the upcoming T20I series because of a shoulder injury but has been selected for the first three ODIs against India.
His availability will be a welcome boost for Santner, as Ravindra offers value with both bat and ball. His ability to contribute in different phases of an innings gives the team another tactical option, particularly in conditions where spin bowling becomes important.
New Zealand will hope Ravindra can regain his rhythm and make a strong contribution against India. His performance in the opening three matches could also influence how the team approaches the middle overs.
Meanwhile, several players remain unavailable while recovering from injuries. Zak Foulkes is dealing with a hip flexor problem, Will O’Rourke is recovering from a calf injury, and Ben Sears is rehabilitating an ankle issue. None was considered for selection for the ODI series.
New Zealand ODI squads for India series 2026
New Zealand Cricket has confirmed separate groups for the opening three matches and the final two ODIs.
Squad for the first three ODIs: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner and Will Young.
Squad for the fourth and fifth ODIs: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Lockie Ferguson, Mitch Hay (wicketkeeper), Nick Kelly, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Blair Tickner and Will Young.
One detail worth noting is that Jacob Duffy has been included in both squads. Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra and Nathan Smith are among the players named for the opening three games but not the final two.
The changes are designed to give New Zealand greater depth while allowing selected players to begin preparing for the Test series.
India vs New Zealand ODI series 2026: Full schedule
The five-match ODI series begins on November 4 in Auckland and concludes on November 15 at Mount Maunganui. The matches will be played across four venues in New Zealand.
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1st ODI | November 4 | Eden Park, Auckland |
| 2nd ODI | November 7 | Wellington |
| 3rd ODI | November 10 | Seddon Park, Hamilton |
| 4th ODI | November 13 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
| 5th ODI | November 15 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
The ODI series follows five T20Is scheduled from October 22 to November 1. After the ODIs, the teams will meet for two Test matches, beginning on November 19 in Wellington.
For India, the tour will provide a valuable opportunity to assess its 50-over combinations in challenging overseas conditions. The Indian ODI squad announcement was still pending as of October 11, according to contemporary reports.
2027 ODI World Cup preparation adds importance to the series
The series carries significance beyond the immediate result. With the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup scheduled to take place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, both teams have reason to evaluate their options and build combinations ahead of the tournament.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has highlighted the importance of the five matches as preparation for the World Cup. He also explained that bringing seven additional players into the final two ODIs would allow the team to assess its depth against a strong opponent.
For New Zealand, playing at home offers an opportunity to build momentum and test different combinations. Santner will be expected to lead a side featuring experienced campaigners alongside players looking to establish themselves in the ODI setup.
India, meanwhile, will arrive with its own ambitions. The visitors will need to adjust to New Zealand’s conditions, manage the demands of a packed international schedule and find the right balance between experienced players and emerging talent.
Ferguson’s return adds another compelling storyline. His pace and experience could prove important against India’s top order, while Allen and Seifert offer fresh possibilities with the bat.
The biggest question will be whether New Zealand can turn these selection changes into consistent performances across five matches. The opening three ODIs should establish the tone, while the revamped squad for the final two games will offer a closer look at the team’s wider resources.
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