IND vs NZ ODI: After T20, this star of Team India will now be out of ODIs too, BCCI is going to take a big step!

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is poised to make a significant decision regarding the Indian squad for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand, scheduled to commence on January 11. Reports suggest that a major shake-up is on the cards for Team India's ODI plans, particularly concerning the wicketkeeper-batsman slot. The BCCI's Senior Selection Committee is expected to announce the squad in the coming days, and it's widely believed that a prominent star player will be left out, paving the way for a new direction in the team's composition.

Rishabh Pant's Exclusion Imminent

Star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is reportedly set to be excluded from the Indian squad for the ODI series against New Zealand. Pant has been struggling to secure a consistent spot in the Indian ODI playing XI for quite some time now. The team management is reportedly looking to adopt a new strategy, prioritizing current form and team combination. The series will be played from January 11 to January 18, with the squad announcement anticipated on January 3 or Sunday, January 4. This potential exclusion follows Pant's failure to make it into the squad for the T20 World Cup 2026, marking another significant setback in his international career, while his absence from the ODI setup could signal a more challenging path ahead for the talented southpaw.

Reasons Behind Pant's Omission

Rishabh Pant's last ODI appearance was in August 2024 against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Following that, he was part of the squad for the recent series against South Africa but didn't get an opportunity to play a single match. Selectors have now reportedly decided to move past him for the New Zealand series. KL Rahul remains the management's preferred choice as the wicketkeeper-batsman in the team, which has limited Pant's opportunities. On top of that, the exceptional form of young wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan has emerged as a significant threat to Pant's place. The team management is keen on giving preference to players who are consistently performing well and fit into the desired team combination, indicating a shift in selection philosophy.

Ishan Kishan's Strong Comeback Bid

Ishan Kishan appears poised for a return to the ODI squad after more than two years. His last 50-over match for Team India was against Afghanistan in Delhi during the 2023 World Cup. Since then, Kishan has delivered a series of stellar performances in domestic cricket, capturing the attention of selectors and fans alike. His consistent batting prowess and aggressive style have made a compelling case for his inclusion. Kishan's ability to provide quick runs and his reliable wicketkeeping skills make him a valuable asset for the team, especially as they look to build a strong unit for future challenges.

Kishan's Domestic Dominance

Ishan Kishan showcased exceptional form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, where he emerged as the highest run-scorer, leading Jharkhand to their maiden title. His brilliant century in the final against Haryana was a testament to his current form and match-winning capabilities. Kishan continued this impressive run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he smashed a century off just 33 balls against Karnataka on December 24, setting a record for the second-fastest List A century in Indian cricket history. His sustained high-level performance at the domestic level has made it difficult for selectors to overlook him, solidifying his claim for a spot in the national team. This consistent display of talent is a positive sign for Team India, particularly in their search for dynamic middle-order and wicketkeeping options.

BCCI's Strategic Move

This decision by the BCCI's Senior Selection Committee is considered a significant strategic move for Indian cricket. It underscores the selectors' renewed emphasis on current player form and overall team balance. As this is the last domestic ODI assignment of the 2025-26 season, these changes are crucial for preparing the team for upcoming major tournaments. The team management is focused on providing opportunities to players who are consistently performing and have the potential to contribute to victories. This decision also aims to foster healthy competition within the squad and encourage young talents to strive for excellence, ensuring a strong pipeline of players for the future.