New Zealand home summer to start with blockbuster all-format India tour
A Historic Schedule for the Black Caps
The upcoming cricket season is poised to be an unforgettable chapter for sports fans across the nation. It has been confirmed that the New Zealand home summer to start with blockbuster all-format India tour, running from October 22 through December 1. This massive undertaking consists of 12 international matches, comprising five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Test matches, spanning five major venues. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has noted that this serves as the largest inbound tour schedule in their history.
The India Tour Breakdown
The intensity begins in Christchurch at the Hagley Oval with the first two T20Is on October 22 and 24. The action then travels to Wellington, Auckland, and Hamilton for the conclusion of the T20I series. Following a brief two-day break, the ODI series shifts gears, starting in Auckland on November 4, with subsequent matches in Wellington, Hamilton, and culminating with two fixtures in Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15.
The red-ball format, arguably the highlight for traditionalists, sees the Test series commence in Wellington on November 19, with the second Test set for Christchurch starting on November 27. This series follows a significant historical milestone, as New Zealand seeks to maintain the momentum from their sensational 3-0 series sweep of India in their home conditions during late 2024.
A Celebration of Culture and Sport
NZC chief marketing and commercial officer Glenn Critchley emphasized that this tour transcends the boundary ropes. It serves as a celebration of the 100-year sporting relationship between the two nations. With global icons like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah expected to feature, the atmosphere at the grounds promises to be electric. Critchley noted, “Experiencing the noise, color, and atmosphere of an Indian cricket international is a bucket-list event.”
Full Summer Itinerary: Sri Lanka and Bangladesh
Beyond the India tour, the summer season remains packed with excitement. Following their away tour to Australia, the Black Caps will host Sri Lanka for an all-format series in late January and February. This segment includes three ODIs, three T20Is, and two Test matches, taking place across eight cities in total.
The New Zealand women’s team will also enjoy a significant home presence, hosting Bangladesh between December 10 and 23. This tour features three T20Is and three ODIs, serving as vital preparation for the inaugural ICC Women’s Champions Trophy. The matches are spread across Saxton Oval in Nelson, Wellington, and Mount Maunganui.
Player Perspectives
Ish Sodhi, speaking at the schedule launch in South Auckland, highlighted the personal significance of these fixtures. “It’s always a special occasion playing India. They’re an unbelievable cricket team, full of talent and star power. I’m really proud of my Indian heritage and to represent my community here is special,” Sodhi remarked. Meanwhile, Eden Carson is eagerly anticipating her return to the pitch against Bangladesh following a period of rehabilitation from an elbow injury, emphasizing the importance of the series in building toward the upcoming ICC tournament.
Broadcasting and Legacy
Adding to the excitement is the return of Sky New Zealand as the primary host broadcaster for the next six seasons. With over 42 days of international cricket scheduled, the upcoming summer is set to be a spectacle of world-class talent, intense rivalries, and a deep appreciation for the history shared between New Zealand and its touring opponents. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early for what promises to be the most significant home summer in recent memory.
