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Indian cricket fans are eagerly waiting to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back in action. Both star batters have reached New Zealand along with captain Shubman Gill and other members of the Indian ODI squad for the upcoming five-match series.
The India vs New Zealand ODI series will begin on November 4. The Indian players have also started their preparations for the upcoming challenge. Team India will enter the ODI series after completing its ongoing T20I campaign, where it currently holds a 3-1 lead.
With two of India's most experienced batters returning to action, fans are keen to know when Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will play their first match. Here is the complete schedule, their recent ODI records and the major milestone Kohli could achieve during the series.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series: When Will Rohit and Virat Play Their First Match?
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to feature in the opening ODI on November 4 in Auckland. Both players last represented India in an ODI against West Indies on October 3. They will return to the 50-over format after a break of around one month.
The five-match series will continue until November 15, with matches scheduled across four New Zealand venues. Rohit and Virat are expected to play an important role in India's batting lineup throughout the series.
IND vs NZ ODI Schedule 2026: Check All 5 Matches, Dates and Venues
The India vs New Zealand ODI series will feature five exciting encounters. The opening match will take place in Auckland, while the final two matches will be played in Mount Maunganui.
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| November 4 | 1st ODI | Auckland |
| November 7 | 2nd ODI | Wellington |
| November 10 | 3rd ODI | Hamilton |
| November 13 | 4th ODI | Mount Maunganui |
| November 15 | 5th ODI | Mount Maunganui |
Fans will get five opportunities to watch India's star players compete against the Black Caps in New Zealand conditions.
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Rohit Sharma's ODI Record in 2026: 604 Runs in 12 Innings
Rohit Sharma has enjoyed an impressive year in ODI cricket. The Indian opener has scored 604 runs in 12 innings at an average of 50.33.
His performance includes two centuries and two half-centuries. Rohit's experience at the top of the order will be crucial for India, especially against New Zealand's bowling attack in home conditions.
He will aim to continue his excellent run and give India strong starts in the upcoming series.
Virat Kohli's ODI Form in 2026: 552 Runs at an Average of 69
Virat Kohli has also been among the most consistent Indian batters this year. He has accumulated 552 runs in nine innings at an outstanding average of 69.
Kohli's 2026 ODI record includes two centuries and three half-centuries. His ability to handle pressure and build partnerships will make him a key player in India's campaign.
The upcoming series will also give him an opportunity to add another major achievement to his impressive international career.
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Virat Kohli Eyes Historic 2,000 ODI Runs Against New Zealand
Virat Kohli could create history during the upcoming India vs New Zealand ODI series. The former Indian captain is just 103 runs away from completing 2,000 ODI runs against the Black Caps.
Kohli has scored 1,897 runs in 36 innings against New Zealand, making him India's leading run-scorer against the team in ODI cricket.
If he manages to score another 103 runs, he will become the first batter in the world to reach the 2,000-run milestone against New Zealand in ODIs.
This record will be another major reason to watch Kohli closely during the five-match series.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series: What to Expect From Team India?
India will look to carry its winning momentum from the T20I series into the ODI format. The return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will strengthen the batting lineup, while captain Shubman Gill will have the responsibility of leading the team.
With both senior batters in impressive form and Kohli approaching a historic milestone, the five-match series promises plenty of excitement for cricket fans.
The first ODI on November 4 in Auckland will mark the beginning of India's next challenge against New Zealand.
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