IND vs NZ 2026 ODIs: Gaikwad’s Exclusion Sparks Big Debate in Indian Cricket
The omission of Ruturaj Gaikwad from India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against New Zealand has sparked widespread debate in Indian cricket circles. A former India opener has suggested that this snub could significantly dent the young batter’s chances of securing a long-term place in India’s 50-over setup.
Gaikwad, known for his elegant stroke play and consistency in limited-overs formats, had been widely anticipated to feature in the upcoming IND vs NZ 2026 ODI series, slated to begin on January 11. However, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad, his name was conspicuously absent, a development that has drawn sharp reactions from former players and fans alike.
The controversy surrounding Gaikwad’s exclusion is rooted in his recent performances. He was drafted into the Indian team during the South Africa ODI series due to injuries to senior batters and made the opportunity count by scoring a maiden ODI century. The knock underlined his ability to adapt quickly and deliver under pressure. Despite this, Gaikwad failed to find a place in the squad to face New Zealand, with selectors opting to back more established names, particularly Shreyas Iyer, who has returned from an injury layoff and regained full fitness ahead of the series.
This context prompted a former India opener to remark that the “door is almost shut” on Gaikwad’s ODI prospects. The comment reflects the intense competition for batting spots in the Indian team, where the presence of experienced players often limits opportunities for consistent runs at the international level.
India’s batting lineup for the New Zealand series features a blend of experience and returning stars. Shubman Gill has been named captain for the ODIs, and alongside established batters like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the preference has been to back tried-and-tested performers in crucial roles. The return of Iyer as vice-captain further tightens competition for the middle order, particularly at number four a position Gaikwad has previously filled with success.
Analysts point to the abundance of batting talent in India’s pool as a key factor. With players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, and others also vying for limited vacancies, selectors often face difficult choices to balance experience, form, and team requirements.
For Gaikwad, the current situation underscores a broader reality in Indian cricket consistent opportunities at the international level can be hard to secure unless a player is firmly established or slots open due to injuries or rotation policies. Former players and commentators argue that the selectors might revisit Gaikwad’s case if he continues strong performances in domestic cricket, such as the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, where consistency could make a compelling case for recall.
For now, Gaikwad’s ODI journey appears to be on hold. With India’s ODI plans built around key performers and long-term strategy, the Chennai Super Kings captain faces a challenging road back into the national side unless rotation or injury creates a fresh opening.
Gaikwad, known for his elegant stroke play and consistency in limited-overs formats, had been widely anticipated to feature in the upcoming IND vs NZ 2026 ODI series, slated to begin on January 11. However, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad, his name was conspicuously absent, a development that has drawn sharp reactions from former players and fans alike.
The controversy surrounding Gaikwad’s exclusion is rooted in his recent performances. He was drafted into the Indian team during the South Africa ODI series due to injuries to senior batters and made the opportunity count by scoring a maiden ODI century. The knock underlined his ability to adapt quickly and deliver under pressure. Despite this, Gaikwad failed to find a place in the squad to face New Zealand, with selectors opting to back more established names, particularly Shreyas Iyer, who has returned from an injury layoff and regained full fitness ahead of the series.
This context prompted a former India opener to remark that the “door is almost shut” on Gaikwad’s ODI prospects. The comment reflects the intense competition for batting spots in the Indian team, where the presence of experienced players often limits opportunities for consistent runs at the international level.
India’s batting lineup for the New Zealand series features a blend of experience and returning stars. Shubman Gill has been named captain for the ODIs, and alongside established batters like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the preference has been to back tried-and-tested performers in crucial roles. The return of Iyer as vice-captain further tightens competition for the middle order, particularly at number four a position Gaikwad has previously filled with success.
Analysts point to the abundance of batting talent in India’s pool as a key factor. With players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, and others also vying for limited vacancies, selectors often face difficult choices to balance experience, form, and team requirements.
For Gaikwad, the current situation underscores a broader reality in Indian cricket consistent opportunities at the international level can be hard to secure unless a player is firmly established or slots open due to injuries or rotation policies. Former players and commentators argue that the selectors might revisit Gaikwad’s case if he continues strong performances in domestic cricket, such as the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, where consistency could make a compelling case for recall.
For now, Gaikwad’s ODI journey appears to be on hold. With India’s ODI plans built around key performers and long-term strategy, the Chennai Super Kings captain faces a challenging road back into the national side unless rotation or injury creates a fresh opening.
Next Story