Ishan Kishan Set for ODI Comeback Over Rishabh Pant for New Zealand Series

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Ishan Kishan Set for ODI Comeback Over Rishabh Pant for New Zealand Series: Big news is emerging regarding the Indian cricket team. Significant changes could be seen in the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand in January 2026. According to reports, this time, instead of Sanju Samson, 27-year-old Ishan Kishan might be included in the ODI team in place of Rishabh Pant.

The most surprising news is that star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant may be dropped from this series.

Why is Rishabh Pant being dropped?

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Rishabh Pant, who was recently part of the South Africa series and the 2025 Champions Trophy squad, seems to be out of contention for the New Zealand series. Although Pant is a mature player, the team management and the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar are now looking at other options. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to officially announce the team by January 4th.

Ishan Kishan: Back in the squad thanks to his form

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Ishan Kishan, the explosive batsman from Jharkhand, is almost certain to replace Rishabh Pant. Kishan has been in sensational form in domestic cricket:

• Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: He was among the top run-scorers in the tournament.
• Vijay Hazare Trophy: He forced the selectors' hand by scoring a century in just 33 balls against Karnataka. In another match, playing at number 6, he scored 125 runs off just 39 balls.
• Last ODI: Kishan last played an ODI match in October 2023, and now, two years later, he is showing signs of a comeback.

Sanju Samson vs Ishan Kishan: Who will get the chance?

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Interestingly, Sanju Samson is considered the first choice for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and the T20 series against New Zealand. But in the ODI format, the selectors are showing faith in Kishan's versatility.

Ishan Kishan can fit into both the middle order and the opening slot, which gives him an edge over Samson.

Also Read: India announced squad for the U19 World Cup, with Ayush Mhatre named as captain

Will Shubman Gill take over the captaincy?

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According to reports, young opener Shubman Gill might captain the team in the ODI series against New Zealand. However, Gill's Test deputy (vice-captain), who recently scored 70 runs for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, is unlikely to find a place in this ODI squad. Virat Kohli also showcased his form during the same match, playing a brilliant innings of 77 runs.

Shreyas Iyer's return expected

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There is also much talk about the return of middle-order mainstay Shreyas Iyer. Iyer was sidelined from the South Africa series due to injury, but he has now started training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. If he receives medical clearance, he will further strengthen the middle order.

Also Read: Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma Vijay Hazare Trophy Salary: International vs Domestic