Ahead of a much-anticipated five-game one-day international series against India, New Zealand received a huge blow with both all-rounder Rachin Ravindra and batsman Mark Chapman suffering from injuries and being ruled out of the entire series. The Black Caps announced a number of squad adjustments as they prepare for the first match on November 4th at Eden Park in Auckland.
With two critical batting positions vacant, there will be new hurdles for New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner to clear. This is especially true given that New Zealand lost the last T20I series with India (3-2).
Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman Ruled Out Due to Injuries
The right arm injury sustained by Rachin Ravindra during a promotional shoot in September is still being treated. Ravindra has made progress in recovering from the injury but is not yet at 100% capacity to take the field for New Zealand’s next assignment of international white-ball cricket.
New Zealand’s management has chosen not to rush the return of the player, as there is a critical two-match test series versus India that will take place in the latter half of October.
At the same time, Mark Chapman continues to be unavailable due to a left hamstring injury he sustained during the European T20 Premier League. A recent MRI scan has determined that Chapman will need about two additional weeks of rehab before being able to return to playing competitive cricket.
Both players also missed the preceding T20I series against India.
New Zealand Announce Replacements for ODI Series
To help alleviate the impact of injury-related delays in player availability, New Zealand Cricket has made some modifications to improve the strength of their One Day International (ODI) team.
Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper-batsman) is now included in the squad for the entire five-match series, having previously been named to play in the last two ODIs only. Seifert was impressive during his 93-run knock in the fifth T20I match played against India.
The selection of experienced batsman Henry Nicholls to play in the opening three One Day Internationals (ODIs) comes after he scored 119 runs for Canterbury in the Ford Trophy.
Dean Foxcroft is expected to be available for selection for the last two games as he has finished his commitments with the New Zealand A team.
Matt Fisher, a fast bowler, is set to be with the team for the entire series and can provide more bowling options.
Head Coach Rob Walter Responds to Injury Setbacks
New Zealand’s Head Coach, Rob Walter, was disappointed to lose two important players prior to a critical international series.
“It is such a pity that we will be without Mark and Rachin for this series, since everybody knows how valuable both players are to our team,” Walter stated.
The coach said Ravindra’s long-term health remains a primary goal, especially with Test matches coming up.
The experienced pacer Matt Henry’s status as a player for this game is still in doubt as he is still recovering from a quadriceps injury. He will be evaluated for match readiness and final selection.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2026 Schedule
The five-match ODI series begins on November 4, with matches scheduled across four New Zealand venues.
| Match | Date | Venue |
| 1st ODI | November 4, 2026 | Auckland |
| 2nd ODI | November 7, 2026 | Wellington |
| 3rd ODI | November 10, 2026 | Hamilton |
| 4th ODI | November 13, 2026 | Mount Maunganui |
| 5th ODI | November 15, 2026 | Mount Maunganui |
Can New Zealand Overcome Their Injury Problems?
The loss of Ravindra and Chapman has left the New Zealand squad with a number of senior players, including Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner.
However, with Ravindra out of action, the team has lost some of its batting versatility and spin-bowling capabilities; and with Chapman injured, the team’s middle order depth has been reduced.
As India continues to look for a way to maintain their winning streak, New Zealand’s backup players will be critical in keeping the team competitive during the remainder of the series.
These upcoming ODIs are a great way to give emerging players a chance to show what they can do before the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
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