Why Mohammad Shami, Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad couldn’t make it to the India ODI squad for New Zealand? BCCI asked them to…
GH News January 04, 2026 02:06 AM

New Delhi: For the upcoming ODI series the Indian selectors have prioritized stability avoiding major changes to the team. Compared to the recent T20 selections the ODI squad appears more balanced and settled striking a balance between experience consistency and future planning.
A Message of Continuity in the ODI Team
The selectors have signaled their intention to maintain a reliable structure in the ODI format. Rishabh Pant has been retained as the second wicketkeeper while some players who performed well in domestic cricket will have to wait longer. This strategy indicates that the team management values stability in 50-over cricket.
Pant Retained Kishan Still Waiting
Rishabh Pants inclusion in the team suggests that the selection committee is not in a hurry to make changes. Two half-centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy strengthened his case. However in the current scenario KL Rahul remains the first-choice wicketkeeper in ODIs making Pants chances of playing in the starting XI slim. Meanwhile despite making an impact in domestic cricket Ishan Kishan will have to wait again.
Hardik Out Shamis Wait Continues
Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the ODI series due to not being fully fit. The BCCI medical panel did not give him the green light to bowl 10 overs so no risks were taken considering the T20 World Cup. Nitish Kumar Reddy has been given a chance as a fast-bowling all-rounder in his place.Meanwhile Mohammed Shami is once again out of the team. Despite proving his fitness and form in domestic cricket the selectors have prioritized investing in young fast bowlers making Shamis return difficult for now.
Gaikwad Out Siraj Returns
Despite scoring a century against South Africa Ruturaj Gaikwad did not find a place in the team. Shreyas Iyers return was prioritized over him while Yashasvi Jaiswal managed to retain his place as the third opener. Mohammed Sirajs return to the bowling attack is considered crucial. With Jasprit Bumrah rested Siraj is expected to lead the attack with the new ball providing guidance and control to the younger bowlers.
Story Highlights
Selectors prioritized stability and continuity in the ODI team
Rishabh Pant retains his place Ishan Kishan will have to wait longer
Hardik Pandya ruled out due to fitness issues Mohammed Shamis return delayed
Sirajs return strengthens the fast bowling attack