India vs New Zealand 1st ODI 2026 – Schedule, Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Tips & Who Will Win
India vs New Zealand 1st ODI Match Preview
The India vs New Zealand 1st ODI will mark the beginning of an exciting limited-overs rivalry as part of the New Zealand Tour of India 2026. Both teams are among the strongest sides in world cricket, and this ODI series is expected to deliver competitive and high-quality cricket right from the opening match.
Scheduled in January 2026, the first ODI will be played as a Day/Night encounter under floodlights, giving fans a complete white-ball spectacle. With conditions in India traditionally favoring batters and spinners, the opening match will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the series.
IND vs NZ 1st ODI Schedule and Match Details
- Match: India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI
- Series: New Zealand Tour of India 2026
- Date: January 11, 2026
- Time: 03:40
- Venue: TBC
- Format: One Day International
- Match Type: Day/Night
The venue is yet to be officially confirmed, but regardless of location, Indian conditions are expected to play a significant role in match strategy and team selection.
Pitch Report and Match Conditions
As the venue is currently TBC, the pitch behavior will depend on the final location. However, most Indian ODI venues generally offer:
- Good batting surfaces in the first innings
- Some assistance for spinners as the match progresses
- Dew impact in night games, favoring teams chasing
A competitive first-innings total in Indian ODIs usually ranges between 280 and 320, depending on pitch and weather conditions.
India Team Analysis
India enter the ODI series with a strong and well-balanced squad. Their batting lineup is deep, technically sound, and capable of building big partnerships at the top. The middle order adds stability, while the lower order provides finishing power.
Key strengths of India include:
- Consistent top-order batting
- Variety in spin bowling options
- Strong home record in ODIs
India’s success in the 1st ODI will depend on their ability to dominate the middle overs and maintain pressure through spin and disciplined bowling.
New Zealand Team Analysis
New Zealand are known for their disciplined and structured approach in ODI cricket. They may not always rely on explosive batting, but their consistency, adaptability, and smart bowling strategies often make them dangerous opponents.
Key factors for New Zealand:
- Strong pace bowling attack
- Reliable middle-order batters
- Excellent fielding standards
If New Zealand adapt quickly to Indian conditions and handle spin well, they can challenge the hosts in the opening ODI.
Head-to-Head Record: India vs New Zealand in ODIs
India and New Zealand have faced each other numerous times in ODIs, producing memorable matches in both bilateral series and ICC tournaments. Historically:
- India hold a stronger record at home
- New Zealand have performed well in pressure matches
- Most encounters are closely fought
The 1st ODI will be especially important as both teams aim to gain early momentum in the series.
Dream11 Prediction: India vs New Zealand 1st ODI
For India vs New Zealand 1st ODI Dream11 prediction, fantasy players should focus on in-form batters, reliable all-rounders, and wicket-taking bowlers.
Dream11 Fantasy Tips
- Prefer top-order batters from both teams
- Include at least one spin-bowling all-rounder
- Pick a death-over specialist bowler
- Balance the team between batters and bowlers
Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: A top-order Indian batter or an all-rounder
- Vice-Captain: A New Zealand middle-order batter or strike bowler
Choosing players who contribute in multiple phases of the game increases fantasy points potential.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
Fans can follow the India vs New Zealand 1st ODI live score and full match coverage through official broadcasters:
- TV Broadcast: ESPN Star
- Online Streaming: Willow TV
Match highlights of the NZ vs IND 1st ODI will be available on Willow TV and ESPN Star official YouTube channels after the match.
Ticket Information and Match Attendance
Tickets for the New Zealand Tour of India 2026 1st ODI are expected to be available online via official ticketing platforms. International courier delivery options will be available for overseas fans.
Spectators are advised to book tickets at least one month in advance. Official tour packages, including hotel bookings and travel arrangements, can be purchased through authorized websites.
Full India vs New Zealand 2026 Series Schedule
| Date | Match | Time | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 11, 2026 | India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI | 03:40 | TBC |
| Jan 14, 2026 | India vs New Zealand, 2nd ODI | 13:30 local | TBC |
| Jan 18, 2026 | India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI | 13:30 local | Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore |
| Jan 21, 2026 | India vs New Zealand, 1st T20 | 19:00 local | VCA Stadium, Nagpur |
| Jan 23, 2026 | India vs New Zealand, 2nd T20 | 19:00 local | International Cricket Stadium, Raipur |
| Jan 25, 2026 | India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20 | 19:00 local | Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati |
Match Prediction: Who Will Win IND vs NZ 1st ODI?
The India vs New Zealand 1st ODI prediction slightly favors India, mainly due to home conditions, strong batting depth, and spin advantage. If India bat first and post a big total, they will be difficult to stop.
However, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and ability to perform under pressure mean they cannot be ruled out, especially if they win the toss and chase.
Predicted Winner:
- India have a clear edge
- New Zealand remain strong challengers
Final Verdict
The India vs New Zealand 1st ODI promises high-quality cricket, tactical battles, and fantasy cricket excitement. With both teams evenly matched, fans can expect a thrilling start to the New Zealand Tour of India 2026.
Fantasy players should monitor the final playing XI, pitch report, and toss outcome before locking in their Dream11 teams.
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