Bumper 12-match tour: India set for 40-day Kiwi challenge across T20Is, ODIs, and Tests
Team India is set to embark on one of their most gruelling and comprehensive overseas assignments in recent years, locking horns with New Zealand in a multi-format, 40-day tour. The marquee bilateral series features a sprawling schedule of 12 matches across 5 iconic Kiwi venues, comprising 5 T20Is, 5 ODIs, and 2 Tests.
The high-octane tour swings into motion on October 22, 2026, kicking off a bumper block of white-ball fixtures before transitioning into a rigorous red-ball finish.
Split Captaincy Headline ODI Leg
Selectors have continued with a dynamic leadership structure, particularly for the rare five-match ODI leg. Shubman Gill will take charge as captain for the opening three 50-over fixtures, steering the side through Auckland, Wellington, and Hamilton. Leadership will then transition to Shreyas Iyer, who will captain the side for the final two ODIs at Mount Maunganui.
The series also presents a major tactical trial for India’s white-ball depth and top-order resilience against a formidable New Zealand bowling attack known to exploit home seam and swing conditions.
Complete Tour Fixtures & Schedule
All times are listed in Indian Standard Time (IST) alongside local New Zealand timings.
1. T20I Series (5 Matches)
Match Timing: 12:30 PM IST / 8:00 PM NZDT
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (IST) |
| 1st T20I | October 22, 2026 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 12:30 PM |
| 2nd T20I | October 24, 2026 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 12:30 PM |
| 3rd T20I | October 27, 2026 | Sky Stadium, Wellington | 12:30 PM |
| 4th T20I | October 30, 2026 | Eden Park, Auckland | 12:30 PM |
| 5th T20I | November 01, 2026 | Seddon Park, Hamilton | 12:30 PM |
2. ODI Series (5 Matches)
Match Timing: 7:30 AM IST / 3:00 PM NZDT
| Match | Date | Venue | Captain (IND) | Time (IST) |
| 1st ODI | November 04, 2026 | Eden Park, Auckland | Shubman Gill | 7:30 AM |
| 2nd ODI | November 07, 2026 | Sky Stadium, Wellington | Shubman Gill | 7:30 AM |
| 3rd ODI | November 10, 2026 | Seddon Park, Hamilton | Shubman Gill | 7:30 AM |
| 4th ODI | November 13, 2026 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Shreyas Iyer | 7:30 AM |
| 5th ODI | November 15, 2026 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Shreyas Iyer | 7:30 AM |
3. Test Series (2 Matches)
Match Timing: 3:30 AM IST / 11:00 AM NZDT
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (IST) |
| 1st Test | Nov 19 – Nov 23, 2026 | Basin Reserve, Wellington | 3:30 AM |
| 2nd Test | Nov 27 – Dec 01, 2026 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 3:30 AM |
Conditions and Expectations
The tour promises contrasting phases for the visiting side. While the early T20I block under lights will test power-hitting and death bowling on compact grounds like Eden Park and Hagley Oval, the spotlight will squarely pivot to the traditional format late in November.
The two-match Test series—starting at the historic Basin Reserve before heading to Christchurch—brings high stakes for technique against lateral movement. Cricket pundits anticipate lively surfaces that will rigorously examine India's application against the swinging ball.