Ruturaj Gaikwad's exclusion from India's ODI squad for the New Zealand series has surprised fans, given his recent strong form, including a century in his last ODI. His absence is likely due to the return of captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, with limited spots available in the squad. India is set to play a three-match ODI and five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting January 11.