India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster encounter at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. With India leading the series 1-0 after a nail-biting four-wicket victory in the first match at Vadodara, the hosts are on the cusp of sealing another home series win. But New Zealand, despite fielding a second-string side, showed plenty of fight in the opener, posting 300 and pushing India to the brink. As cricket fans gear up for January 14, 2026, this preview dives deep into every aspect of the game, from pitch conditions to player form, helping you understand why this clash could reignite the passion for ODIs.
The “Ro-Ko” factor – that’s Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli – has been the talk of the town. Their timeless class has breathed new life into the 50-over format, drawing packed crowds and boosting viewership. In Vadodara, Kohli’s sublime 93 anchored India’s chase, while Rohit’s explosive 26 off 29 balls set the tone. Now, in Rajkot, a venue known for run-fests, expect fireworks. But questions linger: Will Nitish Kumar Reddy make his mark as the all-rounder India needs for the 2027 World Cup? Can Daryl Mitchell continue his heroics for New Zealand? And how will the dew factor play out under the lights?
This comprehensive analysis draws from the latest updates across cricket portals like ESPN, Cricbuzz, and Sportskeeda, plus real-time buzz from X (formerly Twitter). We’ll break down match details, venue insights, stats in easy-to-read tables, tactical battles, and more. Whether you’re a die-hard Indian fan or a neutral cricket lover, stick around – this is your one-stop guide to the India vs New Zealand Rajkot ODI.
The series is part of New Zealand’s tour of India 2026, a three-match ODI rubber that’s crucial for both teams. For India, it’s about fine-tuning combinations ahead of the Champions Trophy and the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. Shubman Gill, captaining in the absence of regulars like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya (rested), has a chance to stamp his authority. New Zealand, led by Michael Bracewell, is without stars like Kane Williamson and Trent Boult, but their recent nine-match winning streak (snapped in Vadodara) shows they’re no pushovers.
Why is this match special? Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium, with its flat tracks and short boundaries, often produces 300-plus totals. Add the home crowd’s energy, and it’s a recipe for drama. Recent X posts highlight the excitement: Users like @ImAnant_45 are debating probable XIs, while @Skh9864 points out the venue’s batting paradise status. As per Cricbuzz previews, India might tweak their bowling attack, possibly bringing in Arshdeep Singh for Prasidh Krishna after the latter’s expensive spell in the first game.
Let’s not forget the broader context. ODIs have been under scrutiny for relevance, but series like this – with legends like Kohli chasing records (he’s closing in on more centuries) – prove the format’s enduring appeal. New Zealand hasn’t won a bilateral ODI series in India in seven attempts, winning just eight of 40 matches here. Can they turn the tide? Or will India extend their home dominance, having lost only two bilateral series since 2016, both to Australia?
In the sections ahead, we’ll explore match details, venue guide, stats, pitch report, weather, squads, key players, head-to-head, form, team news, tactical analysis, and predictions. Buckle up – this India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 preview is your ticket to understanding the game’s pulse.
Match Details
The India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 kicks off on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. It’s a day-night affair, starting at 1:30 PM IST (8:00 AM GMT), with the toss at 1:00 PM IST. The venue is Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Gujarat, a ground that’s hosted memorable clashes since its ODI debut.
This match is the second in a three-ODI series under the New Zealand tour of India 2026 banner. As per BCCI’s official site, it’s labeled as “NEW ZEALAND TOUR OF INDIA ODI SERIES 2026.” Umpires and match referee details are typically announced closer to the game, but expect ICC-appointed officials like Nitin Menon or Javagal Srinath.
For fans in India, broadcast options are straightforward. Tune into Star Sports Network for live TV coverage in multiple languages – Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, and more. Streaming is available on JioHotstar (formerly Disney+ Hotstar), free for Jio users or via subscription for premium quality. Internationally, check local providers: Sky Sports in New Zealand, Willow TV in the USA, or Fox Sports in Australia.
Ticket buying has been brisk, with a full house expected. Prices range from ₹800 for general stands to ₹10,000 for premium boxes. Official sales are through BookMyShow, the BCCI’s partner, or the Saurashtra Cricket Association website. Avoid scalpers – resale on platforms like Viagogo often inflates costs. Pro tip: Arrive early to soak in the pre-match buzz, especially with Rohit and Kohli drawing massive cheers.
Why the hype? The first ODI saw India chase 301 with six balls to spare, thanks to Kohli’s masterclass. New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell (89) and Devon Conway (72) set a solid platform, but India’s bowlers, led by Kuldeep Yadav (3/45), pulled it back. As Yardbarker notes, New Zealand’s bowlers struggled in the death overs, leaking runs to KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja.
This setup promises another close contest. India aims for a 2-0 lead, allowing experimentation in the third ODI at Indore. New Zealand needs a win to force a decider and boost morale before the T20 leg.
Venue Guide – Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
Niranjan Shah Stadium, also known as Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Khandheri, Rajkot, is a modern marvel with a capacity of 28,000. Built in 2009, it hosts Saurashtra’s domestic games and has become a regular international venue since 2013. Named after former BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah, it’s praised for its facilities – from lush outfields to state-of-the-art drainage.
The atmosphere here is electric. Rajkot crowds are passionate, often turning matches into festivals. With the Ro-Ko duo in town, expect chants of “Kohli! Kohli!” echoing through the stands. The stadium’s design, with open ends and short boundaries (around 65-70 meters square), favors batters, making it a nightmare for bowlers.
Historically, it’s seen highs like India’s 340/6 against Australia in 2013 (Kohli’s century) and lows like England’s chase in a T20. For ODIs, it’s a batting haven, but seamers get early help. As per ESPN previews, the ground’s location in Gujarat’s dry region means minimal rain interruptions in January.
Fan tips: Gates open three hours before start. Public transport from Rajkot city (10 km away) is easy via buses or autos. Food stalls offer local delights like dhokla alongside standard cricket fare. Security is tight – no large bags or outside food.
Why Rajkot matters for this series? It’s a test of adaptability. India has a mixed record here (1 win, 3 losses in ODIs), but their current form tilts the scales. New Zealand, unaccustomed to such flat decks, must rely on pace variations from Kyle Jamieson.
Venue Statistics and Records
Rajkot’s ODI history is short but telling. Only four matches played before this, all high-scoring. No team has chased successfully – a stat that screams “bat first!”
Here’s a tabular breakdown of key venue stats:
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 4 |
| Teams Batting First Won | 4 |
| Teams Chasing Won | 0 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 322 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 254 |
| Highest Team Total | 352/7 (India vs Australia, 2019) |
| Lowest Team Total | 228 (South Africa vs India, 2015) |
| Highest Successful Chase | N/A (No chases won) |
| Most Runs | Rohit Sharma (188 runs in 3 innings, avg 62.67) |
| Most Wickets | Jasprit Bumrah (7 wickets in 2 matches, avg 18.57) |
India’s record at Rajkot: Played 4 ODIs, won 1, lost 3. Their sole win came against West Indies in 2018 by 6 wickets. Losses to Australia (twice) and South Africa highlight vulnerability when bowling second.
Notable moments: In 2013, Virat Kohli’s 115 powered India to victory over Australia. Rohit’s scores here: 65 (2013), 42 (2017), 81 (2019) – consistent but not explosive. For New Zealand, they’ve never played an ODI here, adding unpredictability.
Compared to other Indian venues like Eden Gardens (avg 1st inns 240) or Wankhede (310), Rajkot is among the flattest. Trends show spinners thriving in middle overs (avg economy 5.2), while pacers leak more (5.8).
As CricTracker reports, the venue’s black soil pitch holds together, offering true bounce. This favors stroke-makers like Kohli, who averages 78 here.
Pitch Report and Conditions
The Rajkot pitch for India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 is expected to be a belter – flat, true, and batsman-friendly. Curators prepare batting paradises here, with even bounce and minimal seam movement. Early on, pacers like Mohammed Siraj might get swing under clouds, but it fades quickly.
By middle overs, spinners enter the fray. Kuldeep Yadav could exploit subtle turn, as seen in past games where wrist-spinners averaged 4 wickets per match. Death overs? A nightmare for bowlers – short boundaries mean sixes galore.
Toss impact: Massive. Win it, bat first, post 340+. No chases succeeded in four ODIs. Prediction: Captain winning toss elects to bat 80% chance.
Dew factor: Moderate in January evenings. Temperatures drop to 15°C, making the ball slippery. Second innings might see faster outfield, aiding chases slightly. But as per Times of India, teams handle it with grip tapes and practice.
Favorable conditions: For batters – clear skies, no rain. Bowlers need variations; Jamieson’s bounce could trouble openers.
Weather Forecast
January 14, 2026, in Rajkot promises ideal cricket weather. Day highs of 26-29°C, dropping to 12-15°C by evening. Humidity low at 40-50%, with light winds (5-10 km/h northerly).
Rain chance: 0% – dry winter conditions. As LatestLY forecasts, hazy skies but no interruptions. Full 100 overs assured.
Impact: Pleasant for players, no heat fatigue. Evening coolness might quicken the pitch marginally.
Team Squads
India’s squad blends experience with youth. Full list:
- Shubman Gill (c) – Top order Batter
- Shreyas Iyer (vc) – Top order Batter
- Arshdeep Singh – Bowler
- Ayush Badoni – Batter
- Harshit Rana – Bowler
- Ravindra Jadeja – Allrounder
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – Opening Batter
- Dhruv Jurel (wk) – Wicketkeeper Batter
- Virat Kohli – Top order Batter
- Kuldeep Yadav – Bowler
- Mohammed Siraj – Bowler
- Nitish Kumar Reddy – Batting Allrounder
- Prasidh Krishna – Bowler
- KL Rahul (wk) – Wicketkeeper Batter
- Rohit Sharma – Top order Batter
New Zealand’s squad:
- Michael Bracewell (c) – Batting Allrounder
- Adithya Ashok – Bowler
- Kristian Clarke – Bowler
- Josh Clarkson – Batting Allrounder
- Devon Conway (wk) – Wicketkeeper Batter
- Zak Foulkes – Allrounder
- Mitchell Hay (wk) – Wicketkeeper Batter
- Kyle Jamieson – Bowler
- Nick Kelly – Top order Batter
- Jayden Lennox – Bowler
- Daryl Mitchell – Batting Allrounder
- Henry Nicholls – Top order Batter
- Glenn Phillips – Allrounder
- Michael Rae – Bowler
- Will Young – Top order Batter
Probable Playing XI
India’s probable XI reflects balance. With Washington Sundar injured, Nitish Reddy slots in for all-round depth. Arshdeep might replace Prasidh for left-arm variety.
Probable India XI:
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Harshit Rana
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
Reasoning: Top order unchanged – Rohit’s aggression, Kohli’s anchor role. Middle: Iyer’s return strengthens, Rahul’s keeping solid. All-rounders Jadeja and Reddy provide seam/spin options. Bowling: Kuldeep’s wrist-spin key, pacers Siraj and Arshdeep for early wickets. Harshit’s raw pace adds edge.
New Zealand’s probable XI:
- Devon Conway
- Henry Nicholls
- Will Young
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Hay (wk)
- Michael Bracewell (c)
- Zak Foulkes
- Kristian Clarke
- Kyle Jamieson
- Adithya Ashok / Jayden Lennox
Reasoning: Openers Conway and Nicholls for stability. Middle: Mitchell’s form crucial, Phillips’ power. Bracewell leads all-round. Bowling: Jamieson’s height for bounce, Foulkes’ variations. Spin: Ashok likely after debut, but Lennox if left-arm needed.
As per News18, Ayush Badoni might debut if spin-heavy, but Reddy’s pace preferred.
Key Players to Watch
Virat Kohli (India) – The Chase Master
Virat Kohli is in vintage form for India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026. In the first game, his 93 off 89 balls (SR 104.49) was a clinic in controlled aggression – piercing gaps, running hard, and punishing loose balls. Recent stats: 565 runs in 10 ODIs at 70.63 average, 101.61 SR. Vs New Zealand: 1,519 runs at 59.96, including 9 centuries.
Backstory: Kohli debuted in 2008, but his ODI prowess peaked post-2011 World Cup. At Rajkot, he has 193 runs in 3 innings (avg 64.33), including a ton vs Australia. Role: Anchor chases or build innings. Why watch? He’s eyeing Sachin Tendulkar’s records – one more ton ties him for most vs NZ. If dew hits, his running between wickets could be decisive.
| Kohli’s Recent ODIs | Runs | Avg | SR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last 10 Matches | 565 | 70.63 | 101.61 |
Rohit Sharma (India) – The Hitman
Rohit Sharma’s explosive starts define India’s top order. In Vadodara, 26 off 29 (3 fours, 2 sixes) showed his intent, charging Jamieson. Recent: 493 runs in 10 ODIs at 54.78 avg, 93.72 SR. Vs NZ: 1,000+ runs at 50+ avg.
Backstory: From Mumbai’s streets to ODI double-centuries (three!), Rohit’s evolution is inspiring. Rajkot record: 188 runs in 3 ODIs (65, 42, 81). Role: Set platform with powerplay fireworks. Why influential? Leaner post-break, his six-hitting (264 in ODIs) pressures bowlers early.
| Rohit’s Rajkot ODIs | Score | Balls | 4s/6s |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs Aus 2013 | 65 | 74 | 5/2 |
| vs SA 2015 | 42 | 44 | 4/1 |
| vs Aus 2019 | 81 | 57 | 8/3 |
Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) – The Anchor
Daryl Mitchell carries NZ’s batting hopes. His 89 in the first ODI nearly won it. Recent: 518 runs in 8 ODIs at 86.33 avg, 92.17 SR. Vs India: 300+ runs at 50 avg.
Backstory: Son of rugby coach John Mitchell, Daryl’s late bloom (debut 2019) is remarkable. Role: Stabilize middle order, accelerate late. Why watch? His sweep against spin (Kuldeep/Jadeja) could counter India’s strength. If NZ bats first, a Mitchell ton sets 320+.
| Mitchell’s Recent Form | Runs | Avg | SR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last 8 ODIs | 518 | 86.33 | 92.17 |
Kuldeep Yadav (India) – The Wrist-Spin Wizard
Kuldeep Yadav’s variations bamboozle. In Vadodara, 3/45 restricted NZ. Recent: 15 wickets in 8 ODIs at 5.61 econ, 30.6 SR.
Backstory: From Kanpur’s alleys to India’s spin duo with Chahal. Post-injury revival is heartening. Role: Middle-overs control. Why key? NZ’s middle order vulnerable to wrist-spin; his googly could dismiss Mitchell or Phillips.
| Kuldeep’s Stats | Wkts | Econ | SR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last 8 ODIs | 15 | 5.61 | 30.6 |
Kyle Jamieson (New Zealand) – The Giant Pacer
Kyle Jamieson’s 6’8″ frame extracts bounce. Recent: 11 wickets in 4 ODIs at 5.03 econ, 19.63 SR.
Backstory: From Auckland to IPL stardom (RCB). Role: Early wickets with seam. Why watch? Troubled Rohit in opener; his short balls test India’s openers on bouncy Rajkot pitch.
| Jamieson’s Form | Wkts | Econ | SR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last 4 ODIs | 11 | 5.03 | 19.63 |
Ravindra Jadeja (India) – The All-Round Star
Jadeja’s home ground advantage. Recent form solid, with bat and ball. Vs NZ: 500+ runs, 40+ wickets.
Backstory: Saurashtra lad, from horse-riding to IPL hero. Role: Control overs, finish innings. Why influential? Local knowledge; his darts could stifle NZ.
Devon Conway (New Zealand) – The Opener
Conway’s 72 in first ODI showed class. Recent avg 50+.
Role: Solid starts. Why key? If survives powerplay, sets platform.
Shubman Gill (India) – The Captain
Gill’s leadership debut promising. Batting: Recent 300+ runs.
Role: Open, captain. Why watch? Tactical acumen vs Bracewell.
This lineup promises 7 explosive battles: Rohit vs Jamieson, Kohli vs Foulkes, Mitchell vs Kuldeep, etc.
Head-to-Head Stats and Records
India dominates New Zealand in ODIs, especially at home.
Overall: 120 matches, India 62 wins, NZ 50, Ties 1, NR 7.
In India: 40 completed, India 32 wins, NZ 8.
Last 5: All India wins.
| Last 5 Matches | Date | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1st ODI 2026 | Jan 11 | India won by 4 wkts |
| Mar 2025 | Mar 9 | India won by 4 wkts |
| Mar 2025 | Mar 2 | India won by 44 runs |
| Nov 2023 | Nov 15 | India won by 70 runs |
| Oct 2023 | Oct 22 | India won by 4 wkts |
Bilateral series in India: NZ 0-7.
Historical context: NZ’s last India series win? Never. Key matches: 2019 World Cup semi (NZ win), but India avenged in 2023 semi. Stats from ESPN show India’s W/L ratio 4:1 in India.
Recent Form Guide
India: WWLWW – Wins vs NZ (1st), SA, Aus; loss to SA.
New Zealand: LWWWW – Loss to India snapped 9-win streak (vs WI, Eng, Pak).
Series context: India builds for 2027 WC; NZ tests depth.
Team news: India – Sundar out, Badoni in, but Reddy plays. NZ – Stick with XI, Ashok retains spot.
Match Analysis: Key Battles and Strategies
- Rohit vs Jamieson: Rohit’s pull vs tall bounce.
- Kohli vs Foulkes: Kohli’s cover drive vs variations.
- Mitchell vs Kuldeep: Sweep vs googly.
- Jadeja vs Phillips: Left-arm vs right-hand power.
- Siraj vs Conway: Swing vs technique.
- Bracewell vs Rana: All-round duel.
- Rahul vs Ashok: Keeping vs leg-spin.
Strategies: India – Exploit spin in middle, pace death. NZ – Target powerplay, contain Ro-Ko.
India’s depth superior; NZ needs early wickets.
Match Prediction
India favorites at 75-80% win chance. Bat first, post 340, defend with spin. NZ upset if chase under dew, but unlikely.
Conclusion: This India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 could be a classic. Watch on JioHotstar, share thoughts! For more cricket updates, follow IPL Star.
India vs New Zealand 2026 ODI Series Preview.
FAQs for India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026
- When is the India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 scheduled? The India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 is set for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, with the match starting at 1:30 PM IST and the toss at 1:00 PM IST at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
- Where is the India vs New Zealand Rajkot ODI 2026 being played? The match will take place at Niranjan Shah Stadium (Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium) in Rajkot, Gujarat, a venue known for high-scoring games and a capacity of 28,000, expected to be packed for this IND vs NZ 2nd ODI preview clash.
- What is the pitch report for Niranjan Shah Stadium ODI in India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026? The Rajkot ODI pitch is expected to be flat and batter-friendly with true bounce, minimal seam movement, and short boundaries. Historically, no team has successfully chased in four previous ODIs, making batting first the preferred option in this India vs New Zealand Rajkot ODI.
- What is the weather forecast for India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 in Rajkot? Clear skies are predicted for January 14, 2026, with daytime temperatures of 26-29°C dropping to 12-15°C in the evening, low humidity (40-50%), light winds, and zero chance of rain—perfect conditions for a full India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 contest.
- Who are the key players to watch in India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026? Standouts include Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for India (the Ro-Ko duo driving chases), Kuldeep Yadav’s wrist-spin, Daryl Mitchell and Kyle Jamieson for New Zealand, plus emerging talents like Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shubman Gill in this crucial India vs New Zealand series 2026 match.
- What are the probable playing XIs for IND vs NZ 2nd ODI 2026? India’s probable XI: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh. New Zealand’s likely XI features Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Kyle Jamieson leading the attack.
- What is the head-to-head record between India and New Zealand in ODIs? In 120 ODIs, India leads 62-50 (1 tie, 7 no-results). In India, the dominance is stronger: 32 wins to New Zealand’s 8 in 40 completed matches, underlining India’s edge heading into the India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026.
- How can I watch the India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 live? In India, watch live on Star Sports Network (multiple languages) and stream on JioHotstar. India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 International viewers can tune in via Sky Sports (NZ), Willow TV (USA), or Fox Sports (Australia) for the India vs New Zealand Rajkot ODI.
- What is the series context for India vs New Zealand series 2026? India leads 1-0 after a four-wicket win in Vadodara. India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 A victory in the 2nd ODI would seal the series, aiding India’s preparations for the 2027 World Cup, while New Zealand aims to level and extend their competitive depth in this bilateral ODI series.
- Who is predicted to win the India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026? India is favored with a 75-80% win probability due to home advantage, superior depth, and the Ro-Ko factor. India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026 However, New Zealand can upset if they exploit early wickets or dew in this high-stakes India vs New Zealand Rajkot ODI.