Ruturaj Gaikwad was surprisingly omitted from India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, despite scoring his maiden ODI century against South Africa in the previous series. The BCCI announced the 15-member squad on January 3, 2026. Former CSK player Ravichandran Ashwin offered encouragement on X, urging Gaikwad to continue working hard amidst tough competition for places in the national team. Gaikwad has played nine ODIs, averaging 28.50.