New Zealand Bring Back Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert for India ODIs

New Zealand have announced split squads for their upcoming five-match ODI series against India, with Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert returning to the 50-over setup for the final two matches. The selections give the Black Caps an opportunity to strengthen their options while assessing squad depth ahead of the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Rachin Ravindra has also been included for the opening three ODIs after a shoulder injury ruled him out of the preceding T20I series. White-ball captain Mitchell Santner will lead both squads during the series, which begins on November 4 at Eden Park in Auckland. 

Finn Allen, Ferguson and Seifert Return

The return of Allen, Ferguson and Seifert is one of the major talking points in New Zealand's selection. Allen offers an attacking batting option at the top of the order, while Ferguson adds pace and experience to the bowling attack. Seifert brings another wicketkeeping option and an aggressive approach with the bat.

Allen and Ferguson last played an ODI in 2023, with Ferguson's most recent appearance coming in the World Cup semi-final against India in Mumbai. Seifert's previous ODI appearance was against Pakistan around 18 months ago. All three have been selected for the fourth and fifth matches rather than the opening leg of the series. 

Rachin Ravindra Returns After Injury

Ravindra has been named in the squad for the first three ODIs as he works his way back from a shoulder injury. The all-rounder had been unavailable for the T20I series against India, making his inclusion in the 50-over squad an important boost for New Zealand.

His return gives the team another batting option and additional flexibility with the ball. New Zealand will hope he can regain match rhythm during the ODI leg of the tour. 

Why New Zealand Have Named Split Squads

New Zealand have opted for separate squads because a section of the players will leave after the third ODI to begin preparations for the Test series. Seven additional players will join the group for the final two matches, allowing the selectors to evaluate a wider group of players against a strong Indian side.

Head coach Rob Walter has highlighted the importance of using the series to assess options ahead of the 2027 World Cup. The five ODIs will also provide an opportunity to examine the team's depth while managing the transition between white-ball commitments and Test preparation. 

New Zealand ODI Squads for India Series

First Three ODIs

Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner and Will Young.

Fourth and Fifth ODIs

Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Lockie Ferguson, Mitch Hay (wicketkeeper), Nick Kelly, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Blair Tickner and Will Young. 

Injured Players Miss Selection

Zak Foulkes, Will O'Rourke and Ben Sears were unavailable for selection as they continue rehabilitation for their respective injuries. Foulkes is recovering from a hip-flexor issue, O'Rourke from a calf injury, and Sears from an ankle problem.

O'Rourke is expected to miss the wider India tour, with his rehabilitation being managed with the aim of making him available for New Zealand's subsequent tour of Australia. 

India Series Schedule

The ODI series begins in Auckland on November 4, followed by the second match in Wellington on November 7 and the third in Hamilton on November 10. The final two ODIs will take place at Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15.

The ODI matches form part of India's wider tour of New Zealand, which also includes five T20Is and two Test matches. The first Test is scheduled to begin in Wellington on November 19. 

Focus Turns to World Cup Preparation

New Zealand's selections reflect two priorities: competing against India and identifying the strongest available group ahead of the next ODI World Cup. Allen, Ferguson and Seifert will have an opportunity to make an impact when they join the squad for the final two matches, while Ravindra's return strengthens the group for the opening games.

With Santner leading both squads and several players receiving opportunities across the series, the five ODIs should provide New Zealand with valuable information about their depth and combinations before the 2027 World Cup cycle moves forward.