According to reports, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya will be rested for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand as India prioritizes workload management ahead of a busy international schedule. The team management is eager to make sure that two of India’s most important white-ball players are physically fit and ready for the big event, the T20 World Cup.
But for the five-match T20I series that comes just after the ODIs, both Bumrah and Pandya are anticipated to make a comeback. With the shorter format gaining precedence as India starts to hone player roles and combinations in preparation for their T20 World Cup defense, the decision demonstrates a clear division of priorities. The ODI team for the New Zealand series is expected going to be announced around January 4 or 5.
It is also anticipated that Rishabh Pant will not participate in the ODI portion of the tour. Selectors will probably use Jitesh Sharma or Ishan Kishan to take over wicketkeeping duties in his absence. Before the action moves to the T20Is in Nagpur, Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, and Thiruvananthapuram between January 21 and 31, the ODIs are set for January 11 in Baroda, January 14 in Rajkot, and January 18 in Indore.
Over the past year, Pandya’s cautious management has been a recurrent theme. Due to persistent fitness issues, the all-rounder, who now only plays white-ball cricket, hasn’t participated in an ODI since the Champions Trophy final in March.
In contrast, Bumrah hasn’t played in the format since the 2023 World Cup final, and because of his significance in all formats, the team management is keeping a careful eye on his workload.
Pandya is anticipated to represent Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy despite being rested from international action. This would guarantee adherence to the BCCI’s guideline requiring centrally contracted players to play domestic cricket.
Pandya is expected to play in two of Baroda’s final three league games, which are set for January 3, 6, and 8 in Rajkot.
