No Sanju Samson and Mohammed Shami in Indian ODI squad for New Zealand series as Aakash Chopra picks his 15-member squad
As the Indian cricket team looks ahead to a busy 2026 schedule, former opener and commentator Akash Chopra has officially weighed in on his favorite 15-man team for the next three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The series, which begins on January 11, 2026 in Vadodara, is a crucial part of the ODI setup after a highly competitive 2025. Chopra’s selection focuses on a rigid mix of returning stalwarts and in-form youngsters, although his categorical exclusion of Sanju Samson And Mohammed Shami could have been a topic of discussion.
Aakash Chopra picks Indian team for New Zealand ODI series
Aakash Chopra on the return of captain Shubman Gill and the top spot
In a video shared on her YouTube channel, Chopra showcased a team that prioritizes continuity and established roles over experimental changes. He was definitive about the return of Shubman Gil to the captaincy and the structure of the first three, which leaves no room for the recent century-maker Yashasvi Jaiswal in the starting lineup.
“Gill is fit and available, and he will be back as captain. There will be no questions there. Rohit Sharma will be seen opening with him, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal has scored a century, but he will have to wait. At No. 3, player of the series Virat Kohli, who looks like a man on a mission.” » said Chopra.
Middle order solutions and KL Rahul factor
Chopra also filled the middle-order gap left by Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to miss the series. He explained the likely replacements, emphasizing the need for consistency and rewarding those who have been part of the system.
“The update on Shreyas Iyer is that he will not be available for this series. So don’t be surprised if his name is not there, and if his name is not there, Ruturaj continues at No. 4. At No. 5, I have KL Rahul as a wicketkeeper, as a batter and maybe as the vice-captain of the team.” » added the former Indian cricketer.
The role of Washington Sundar and his selection logic
A significant part of Chopra’s analysis focused on maintaining depth in the bowling and batting departments. He pointed out that despite the recent rotations, players like Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma provide the necessary balance to the team structure.
“After this, there is a place for Washington Sundar in my team. Even if Washi did not play the last match and Tilak Varma played in his place, I will keep Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma because continuity is important.” » said the former Indian opener.
The general debate and the recall of Mohammed Siraj
Chopra’s considerations for the team centered around a change in the rotation hierarchy and a demand for a return to a seasoned rhythm. He noted that recent performances have put Axar Patel ahead of veteran Ravindra Jadeja in the race for long-term ODI places.
“After that, there is a choice between Axar and Jaddu… Jaddu’s performance was slightly fifty-fifty in the last series. So I think Axar Patel is ahead of him in the race from a long-term perspective. One in between, not both. After that, I say bring Siraj back. That’s enough now.” » explained the cricketer-turned-commentator.
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The rise of Harshit Rana and the stitching department
Chopra highlighted the emergence of Harshit Rana as a primary pace option, noting his match-winning contributions on recent tours. He believes Rana earned his place through consistent performances, especially in high-pressure situations against South Africa.
“After that, I kept Harshit Rana. He won you a game. He played well in Sydney and his performance against South Africa was also good. After that, I say bring back Siraj… So Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh. That’s the close story of my XI.” » emphasized the New Delhi-born cricketer.
Rotation depth: Kuldeep Yadav’s contingency
While discussing the variety of bowling, Chopra included Kuldeep Yadav as an X-factor who can adapt to the pitch conditions. He noted that Kuldeep remains the primary option if the surface offers spin assistance or dew is not an expected factor.
“Kuldeep Yadav can come in if there is no dew. You can drop a fast bowler and play Kuldeep Yadav. So at No. 12, I have Kuldeep Yadav. After that, I will keep Prasidh Krishna in the team. I need an extra fast bowler.” Chopra argued.
The inclusion of Rishabh pants and the strength of the bench
Finally, Chopra addressed the backup wicketkeeper position, defending his choice of Rishabh Pant over other contenders. He argued that Pant’s pedigree justifies his place, even amid “ruckus” over other potential candidates like Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel.
“At No. 14, I will keep Rishabh Pant, even though there was a ruckus about why Rishabh Pant should be kept, that Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel can be kept. You can keep anyone, but also say what is Rishabh Pant’s mistake. I am not picking Varun Chakaravarthy. I am getting Yashasvi Jaiswal, just in case you need him.” Chopra concluded.
Aakash Chopra’s Indian squad for NZ ODI series: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Tilak Varma, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
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