Sat Jan 10 03:20:00 UTC 2026: ### India and New Zealand Set to Clash in First Men’s ODI at Kotambi Stadium

The Story:
The Indian cricket team is poised to face off against New Zealand in the first One Day International (ODI) match at Vadodara’s Kotambi Stadium on Sunday. This marks the first time the stadium will host a men’s international cricket match. Previously, the venue has been used for women’s international games and domestic cricket. Anticipation is high, with focus on the pitch conditions and how they will influence team selection and strategy.

Key Points:

  • The first ODI between India and New Zealand will be played at Vadodara’s Kotambi Stadium, the stadium’s first men’s international match.
  • The stadium has previously hosted women’s international matches and domestic cricket.
  • The pitch is expected to favor batsmen, based on previous matches, including a women’s ODI series between India and the West Indies in December 2024 where India scored over 300 in two matches.
  • Teams are likely to prefer bowling first after winning the toss due to the anticipated presence of dew, which makes it harder to grip the ball in the second innings.
  • Key Indian players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill are returning to the ODI squad. Shreyas Iyer is also returning after recovering from an injury.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kotambi Stadium’s debut as a men’s international venue adds a new dimension to India’s cricketing landscape.
  • The expected batting-friendly pitch suggests a high-scoring contest is likely.
  • The toss will play a crucial role due to the anticipated dew factor.
  • The return of key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill strengthens the Indian squad.

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