Kohli, Rohit lead India in series opener against New Zealand

India will rely on the prime form of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as they take on a rejuvenated New Zealand side in the first of three ODIs here on Sunday.

With the T20 World Cup less than a month away, all eyes will be on the two batting stalwarts during the seven-day ODI series. Both Kohli and Rohit have maintained their match fitness and form, having played a couple of games each in the Vijay Hazare Trophy league round, scoring heavily and sending a strong signal that they remain central to India’s white-ball plans.

The Indian team, at full strength, will look to build momentum and secure a winning start against a new-look New Zealand squad, setting the tone for the remainder of the series. Kohli and Rohit’s performances will be key in anchoring India’s innings and providing stability at the top of the order.

The three-match series will serve as an important platform for India to fine-tune combinations ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup while testing their skills against an evolving opposition.