### India vs New Zealand 1st ODI: A New Chapter Begins in Vadodara The first One Day International (ODI) match between India and New Zealand took place on January 11, 2026, at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. This match marks the beginning of a three-match ODI series, which is significant as it serves as a precursor to the upcoming IPL and T20 World Cup. Shubman Gill, returning from injury, captained the Indian side, while veteran players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were also back in action. The match is particularly noteworthy as it is the first ODI for Shreyas Iyer since his injury during the Australia series. India won the toss and opted to bowl first, aiming to leverage the conditions in Vadodara [https://www.livemint.com/sports/cricket-news/ind-vs-nz-2026-odi-live-score-india-vs-new-zealand-national-cricket-team-scorecard-squad-playing-11-virat-kohli-11768104882580.html][https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-new-zealand-live-score-1st-odi-ind-vs-nz-match-india-national-cricket-team-vs-new-zealand-cricket-team-match-scorecard-commentary-liveblog-153427381]. ### Structure of the Match Overview 1. **Match Context** - The match is part of a three-match ODI series. - It serves as a preparation for the IPL and T20 World Cup. - Shubman Gill leads the Indian team, with Kohli and Sharma returning to bolster the squad. 2. **Toss and Team Selection** - India won the toss and chose to bowl first. - Shreyas Iyer's return is a significant boost for the batting lineup. - The bowling attack includes Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna, with Kuldeep Yadav providing spin support. 3. **Key Player Highlights** - Shubman Gill's leadership is under scrutiny as he returns from injury. - Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are expected to play pivotal roles in the batting order. - New Zealand's squad features a mix of experienced and young players, led by Michael Bracewell. 4. **Match Significance** - This series is crucial for both teams as they prepare for future international competitions. - The performance in this series could influence selections for the T20 World Cup. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Toss Result**: India won the toss and opted to bowl first, a strategic decision aimed at exploiting the pitch conditions [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-new-zealand-live-score-1st-odi-ind-vs-nz-match-india-national-cricket-team-vs-new-zealand-cricket-team-scorecard-commentary-liveblog-153427381]. - **Player Returns**: Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill returned to the squad, enhancing India's batting depth [https://www.firstpost.com/firstcricket/india-vs-new-zealand-live-score-1st-odi-vadodara-ind-vs-nz-scorecard-updates-liveblog-13967545.html]. - **Bowling Lineup**: The Indian bowling attack features Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna, with Kuldeep Yadav as a key spinner [https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-new-zealand-1st-odi-toss-update-playing-xis-ind-v-nz-match-report]. ### Conclusion: A Promising Start for India In summary, the first ODI between India and New Zealand in Vadodara is a significant event as it marks the beginning of a new cricketing chapter for both teams. With India opting to bowl first, the match is set to showcase the return of key players like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, while also providing an opportunity for the younger New Zealand squad to prove their mettle. The outcome of this match could set the tone for the series and influence future selections for major tournaments. 1. **India's Strategy**: Opting to bowl first indicates a tactical approach to utilize the pitch conditions. 2. **Player Returns**: The return of Iyer and Gill strengthens the Indian batting lineup. 3. **Future Implications**: Performance in this series is crucial for both teams as they gear up for the T20 World Cup [https://www.news9live.com/sports/cricket-news/spotlight-on-kohli-rohit-as-shubman-gill-led-india-begin-road-to-2027-world-cup-with-new-zealand-odi-series-2918553].