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Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma (Source:@crictalk7,X.COM)
India began their three-match ODI series against New Zealand at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara with Shubman Gill leading the team as captain for the first time in ODIs in India. Winning the toss, Shubman Gill chose to bowl first, keeping in mind the pitch conditions.
India chose a balanced squad that includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Siraj.
Gill wins the 1st toss for India in 2026
The hosts, however, were dealt a blow before the match as regular wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was ruled out of the series due to a net session injury.
Dhruv Jurel was named as his replacement by the BCCI. Meanwhile, New Zealand handed a debut cap to fast bowler Kristian Clarke.
India Playing XI: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma guide young captain Shubman Gill
While the spotlight was naturally on the young Indian captain, the atmosphere in the Indian dressing room suggested strong mentorship from the senior leaders.
Before the first ball was bowled, it was clearly seen that Virat Kohli delivered a strong pep talk to the team. Kohli's message must have instilled confidence and composure in the players, particularly supporting Shubman Gill.
Additionally, Rohit Sharma was actively involved in helping the young captain, especially with the team's bowling strategy.
In the first over of the match, Rohit Sharma was seen guiding Mohammed Siraj on his run-up and provided key insights on line and length, showing the kind of on-field leadership that complements Gill's captaincy.
Both Kohli and Sharma were seen giving advice, sharing their experience, and encouraging the team to stay positive and focused.
With Shubman Gill at the helm and seasoned leaders Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli actively guiding him, India will aim to start the 2026 cricket calendar on a high.
Watch the video here:
RO-KO's stellar form ahead of NZ series
The presence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli brings a perfect balance. Kohli comes into the series after a stellar performance against South Africa, scoring 302 runs in three ODIs at an average of 151, including consecutive centuries.
Rohit also showed his class with 146 runs in the same series, opening strongly and providing early momentum for India.
Their form ensures that Gill is supported not just with advice but with consistent performances at the crease.
.jpg?type=mq "IND vs NZ: Toss 🪙")
