India’s white-ball strategy for the upcoming New Zealand tour is expected to revolve around careful workload management, with the BCCI prioritising preparation for the T20 World Cup over short-term ODI results. According to a report by Cricbuzz, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are likely to be rested for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, while being pencilled in for the five-match T20I leg that follows.
The decision reflects a long-term planning approach, with India keen to preserve its most influential players for the format considered central to their 2026 goals.
Why Bumrah is being rested
Jasprit Bumrah has not featured in an ODI since the 2023 World Cup final, and his workload continues to be closely monitored. With a packed international calendar ahead, the team management appears unwilling to expend Bumrah’s overs in ODIs, which are being treated as a lower priority compared to T20Is in the World Cup build-up. The shorter format also allows better control over his spells and recovery.
Managing Hardik Pandya’s workload
Hardik Pandya, India’s premier pace-bowling all-rounder, has also been out of ODIs since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025 due to fitness concerns. The report suggests his rest from the ODI series is part of a controlled management plan rather than rotation. Pandya’s multi-dimensional value — with both bat and ball — makes him a critical asset, and the focus is on having him fully fit for the T20I series.
Domestic commitments and tour schedule
As per BCCI guidelines on domestic participation, Pandya is expected to turn out for Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, potentially featuring in matches scheduled on January 3, 6 and 8 in Rajkot. The ODI series against New Zealand will be played on January 11, 14 and 18, followed by T20Is on January 21, 23, 25, 28 and 31.
The ODI squad is expected to be announced around January 4–5, with players assembling on January 7. The timeline further underlines India’s intent to shield key players and peak at the right time, as the T20 World Cup looms large.