When BCCI released its January 2026 calendar, fans got a clear signal: the Black Caps are heading to India for a packed three‑ODI, five‑T20I showdown. The first ODI, a day‑night affair, kicks off at 13:30 on 11 January 2026, and the series runs until 31 January, threading crucial preparation into the run‑up to the Men's T20 World Cup.
Historical Context and Rivalry
India and New Zealand have been trading blows since their inaugural clash in 1955. The most recent meetings were in the ICC Champions Trophy in March 2025, where India posted 249/9 and 254/6 to chase down New Zealand’s totals of 205 and 251/7 respectively. Those victories kept the bragging rights firmly in Delhi’s pocket and set the stage for yet another high‑stakes encounter.
Fixture Details and Schedule
The bilateral series is broken down as follows:
- 1st ODI – 11 Jan 2026 (day‑night, 13:30‑21:00)
- 2nd ODI – 15 Jan 2026
- 3rd ODI – 19 Jan 2026
- 1st T20I – 22 Jan 2026
- 2nd T20I – 24 Jan 2026
- 3rd T20I – 26 Jan 2026
- 4th T20I – 28 Jan 2026
- 5th T20I – 31 Jan 2026
All matches will start at 13:30 local time, with a 30‑minute interval for the ODIs at 17:00. That timing mirrors the successful pattern used during the 2023 New Zealand tour, which saw crowds thronging venues like Hyderabad, Raipur and Indore.
Preparation for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup
The series slots neatly between India’s home Test‑ODI‑T20I stretch against South Africa (Nov‑Dec 2025) and the marquee 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, co‑hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Both sides see the five T20Is as a dress‑rehearsal for the global tournament slated for February‑March 2026.
“We want to make sure our players get the right rhythm ahead of the World Cup,” said Jay Shah, secretary of BCCI. “The conditions in January will be similar to what we expect in March, so this series is crucial.”
Across the Tasman, Ian Bishop, chief executive of New Zealand Cricket (NZC), echoed the sentiment: “Playing in sub‑continental conditions will sharpen our batting depth and spin options before we head to the United Arab Emirates for the Afghanistan series in February.”
Venue Selection and Logistics
The exact stadiums remain under wraps, but insiders expect a multi‑city tour mirroring the 2023 itinerary: Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium), Indore (Holkar Cricket Stadium) and Raipur (Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium). All three venues boast floodlights suitable for day‑night fixtures.
Logistics are being coordinated from BCCI’s headquarters in Mumbai, where a dedicated task force, led by president Roger Binny, is handling travel, security and broadcast arrangements.
Stakeholder Reactions
Fans have already taken to social media, with the hashtag #NZInIndia trending on Indian platforms. Former captain Virat Kohli tweeted, “Excited to test the Black Caps in our backyard. Let’s make it a series to remember.”
Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council (ICC) praised the timing. “This series aligns perfectly with the Future Tours Programme for 2023‑2027, ensuring competitive balance ahead of the World Cup,” said an ICC spokesperson, referencing the 2026 Men's T20 World CupIndia & Sri Lanka.
Impact and Future Outlook
Beyond the immediate excitement, the series could shape squad selections for the World Cup. Players performing consistently in the ODIs may cement their spots for the 2026 Champions Trophy, while T20 specialists will be under the microscope for the final tournament roster.
Analysts also note the commercial upside. Broadcast rights for the series are expected to fetch upwards of $15 million, further bolstering BCCI’s revenue stream ahead of the lucrative World Cup.
Key Facts
- Series dates: 11 Jan – 31 Jan 2026
- Matches: 3 ODIs, 5 T20Is
- First ODI: Day‑night, 13:30‑21:00
- Key officials: Jay Shah (BCCI secretary), Roger Binny (BCCI president), Ian Bishop (NZC CEO)
- Purpose: Final preparation for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the series affect India's T20 World Cup squad?
Performances in the five T20Is will be the final litmus test for fringe players. Those who score runs consistently or take wickets in the middle overs are likely to earn a place in the 15‑man squad announced in March 2026.
Which cities are expected to host the matches?
While the BCCI has not officially confirmed venues, insiders suggest Hyderabad, Indore and Raipur will be on the list, replicating the successful 2023 tour itinerary.
What is the significance of the series for New Zealand?
The Black Caps view the tour as essential exposure to sub‑continental pitches. It offers a chance to fine‑tune their spin attack and adapt batting strategies before the World Cup and the subsequent Afghanistan series in the UAE.
When and where will the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup be held?
The tournament is slated for February‑March 2026, split between venues in India (including Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Kolkata) and Sri Lanka (Colombo and Kandy). Exact dates run from 1 February to 15 March.
What role does the ICC’s Future Tours Programme play in this scheduling?
The FTP mandates bilateral series to ensure balanced competition among member nations. This India‑New Zealand window fulfills the 2023‑2027 FTP requirement, helping both boards meet their international commitments before the World Cup.
