India's cricket team is preparing for a three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11, 2026, with squad announcements expected soon. This series is seen as a step towards the 2027 ODI World Cup. Key players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are returning to the ODI format after strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Sharma is nearing 1,000 runs against New Zealand, having scored 997 runs in 30 matches.