India’s selectors have made a telling leadership call ahead of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, opting to reinstate Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain while overlooking KL Rahul for the role. The decision, announced with the squad on December 3, has sparked discussion among fans, especially given Rahul’s seniority and recent leadership experience.
Shubman Gill Takes Over as Captain
With Shubman Gill returning from injury, the selectors have handed him the captaincy for the New Zealand ODIs, beginning December 11. Gill replaces KL Rahul, who led India in the previous ODI series against South Africa. The move signals the management’s intent to invest in Gill as a long-term leader in the 50-over format.
While Rahul continues as India’s primary wicketkeeper-batter, the leadership hierarchy has clearly shifted with Gill’s return.
Why Shreyas Iyer Was Preferred Over KL Rahul
The vice-captaincy has gone to Shreyas Iyer, who makes his return to the ODI squad after a serious injury earlier this year. During the Australia ODI series, Iyer suffered a rib injury that resulted in a ruptured spleen and required prolonged hospitalisation. Despite the setback, he has been reinstated in the same leadership role he held alongside Gill before the injury.
Selectors appear to have prioritised continuity in leadership. Iyer was Gill’s deputy in the Australia series, and his reappointment suggests confidence in that pairing rather than a reflection on Rahul’s form or standing in the team.
Leadership Roles Clearly Defined
KL Rahul’s role, while crucial, remains focused on his batting and wicketkeeping responsibilities. The selectors may have chosen to reduce his leadership burden, especially with multiple wicketkeeping options—Rahul and Rishabh Pant—named in the squad.
This approach allows Rahul to concentrate on consistency with the bat while maintaining flexibility in team combinations.
Fitness Cloud Over Iyer, But Trust Remains
It is worth noting that Shreyas Iyer’s inclusion is subject to fitness clearance, as confirmed by the BCCI. While it remains unclear whether a replacement will be named if he fails to meet fitness standards, his selection as vice-captain despite this condition underlines the management’s faith in his leadership qualities.
Hardik Pandya Misses Out
Another notable omission from the squad is Hardik Pandya. Despite being named in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad, Pandya has not been cleared to bowl his full quota of 10 overs in ODIs. The BCCI has confirmed that his workload is being carefully managed with a long-term view toward the T20 World Cup.
India’s ODI Squad vs New Zealand
India Squad:
Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal
A Strategic, Not Sentimental Call
By reinstating Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain and elevating Shubman Gill to captaincy, India’s selectors have sent a clear message: leadership decisions are being driven by team balance, continuity, and long-term planning, rather than past roles alone. For KL Rahul, the focus now shifts to delivering with the bat and gloves as India begin another crucial ODI assignment.
