India’s ODI journey in 2026 has started with mixed results. The Men in Blue began the year with a home series against New Zealand. However, the series ended in disappointment. India lost the third ODI in Indore and conceded the series 2-1.
The loss has shifted attention away from ODIs for now. India will focus on T20Is and the upcoming T20 World Cup. Still, fans are eager to know when India will return to the 50-over format and who they will face next.
India’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand ended on January 18 in Indore. In the decider, India chased a target of 338. The hosts were bowled out for 296. Virat Kohli fought hard and scored 124 off 108 balls. Harshit Rana also played a key role with his maiden ODI fifty. Despite these efforts, India lost early wickets and lacked support in the middle order.
Earlier, New Zealand posted 337/8. Daryl Mitchell scored 137. Glenn Phillips added 106. The Indian bowlers struggled in the middle overs. A big partnership helped the visitors take control.
The defeat was historic. It was New Zealand’s first-ever bilateral ODI series win in India. It was also India’s first home ODI series loss after winning the toss since October 2022. India took a 1-0 lead but failed to close out the series.
When Will India Play Its Next ODI Series?
India’s next ODI series is expected to be against Afghanistan. As per the Future Tours Program 2023–27, Afghanistan are scheduled to tour India in June 2026. The series will include three ODIs. Official dates and venues are yet to be announced. This series will mark India’s return to ODIs after a long gap. Senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are likely to return.
Later in 2026, India will tour England in July for a three-match ODI series. The tour will help India prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. India will then host West Indies. A possible away series against New Zealand may follow. The year is expected to end with a home series against Sri Lanka in December. In total, India could play up to 18 ODIs in 2026.
