India's Predicted Playing XI for the ODI series against New Zealand

After a successful T20I series that India won quite comprehensively, they will now lock horns with the New Zealand side in a three-match ODI series with the first match starting on February 5, 2020.

The Men in Blue’s fortunes in the 50-over format has been much better against New Zealand, given that they had won 4-1 the last time they toured the country before the 2019 World Cup. It was a sublime performance then and even this time, Kohli and Co. would be hoping to put up a formidable show again.

One of the biggest things to be considered for this much-awaited ODI series is the formation of the Men in Blue team. While they have been experimenting in the T20 format, the same thing cannot be said about the ODIs, given that these matches have been lesser in the number given that this is a T20 World Cup year.

Will Kedar Jadhav continue in the team despite being 35 years old and in no scheme of things for the 2023 World Cup? Will Shardul Thakur get a chance to prove himself in ODIs as well? Navdeep Saini to cement his spot? Many things will get unfold when the two sides lock horns in the three-match ODI series.

Let’s take a look at Team India’s Predicted XI for the New Zealand ODI series:

1. Rohit Sharma

After a stupendous 2019 in the ODI format where he was the highest run-getter as an opener with more than eight centuries to his name; Rohit Sharma ruled the roost. Rohit had made 169 runs in 5 matches the last time with the best score of 87.

However, since then, the right-hander has shifted gears into another level and will be a crucial element if India wishes to get a winning start. The Mumbai Indians skipper has been one of the most consistent performers for the Men in Blue.

Rohit Sharma had a good series against Australia at home to start 2020, as he made one century in the series decider and averaged 57, as India won the series 2-1. The Indian team will be hoping for a similar outing from the Nagpur-born right-hander this time as well.