Rohit, Kohli Expected for India’s New Zealand ODI Series

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to return to India’s one-day international lineup for a five-match series in New Zealand beginning November 4, with the opening match scheduled at Eden Park in Auckland. Their selection has not been confirmed, and India’s squad had not been announced as of October 4. The series is the next scheduled ODI assignment for the two senior batters after India’s home series against the West Indies concluded on October 3. India lost the third and final match by five wickets after West Indies chased a target of 352, with Shai Hope scoring an unbeaten 162. The result left the three-match series at 2-1 to India. Rohit made 225 runs across the West Indies series, scoring 32, 101 and 92. Kohli scored 168, with innings of 139, 29 and a first-ball dismissal. The figures made Rohit India’s leading scorer in the series, while Kohli’s 139 came in the opening match. Their performances have fueled expectations they will be included for the New Zealand ODIs, but the squad announcement will determine whether they play. The first match is scheduled for November 4 in Auckland.