Indian cricket has a new face at the helm in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand, as Shreyas Iyer takes charge of the team for the first time in the 50-over format. The middle-order batter is leading India in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, marking an important milestone in his international career.

Shreyas Iyer was appointed India’s captain for the fourth and fifth ODIs after regular skipper Shubman Gill was rested for the final two matches of the five-game series. Shubman Gill, who led India in the first three ODIs, has travelled to Wellington to prepare for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand. He is accompanied by KL Rahul and Anshul Kamboj. The Test series is scheduled to begin on November 19 at the Basin Reserve.

Shreyas Iyer Takes Charge of India for the First Time in ODIs

The fourth ODI against New Zealand is a memorable occasion for Shreyas Iyer, as he is making his debut as India’s ODI captain. The Mumbai-born cricketer was appointed vice-captain under Shubman Gill in October 2025. After waiting for around 13 months, he has finally received the opportunity to lead India in the 50-over format.

Although this is his first assignment as India’s ODI captain, Shreyas Iyer is not new to leadership responsibilities. He has already captained India in 26 T20 Internationals in 2026. At the franchise level, he has also led several IPL teams, including Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings. With this appointment, Shreyas Iyer has become the 29th cricketer to captain India in ODI cricket. He will be hoping to make a winning start to his leadership journey in the format.

Shreyas Iyer’s T20I Captaincy Journey: From Early Struggles to Success

Shreyas Iyer’s journey as India’s T20I captain had a difficult beginning. He made his captaincy debut in the shortest format against Ireland in Belfast on June 26, 2026. Unfortunately, India lost that match. His initial run as captain was challenging, as he suffered six defeats in his first seven T20Is in charge. However, he managed to turn things around impressively and guided India to 10 consecutive victories.

One of the biggest highlights of his leadership came at the Asian Games. Shreyas Iyer helped the Indian men’s cricket team successfully defend its gold medal by defeating Pakistan in the final on October 3. After experiencing both difficult and successful phases as a T20I captain, Shreyas Iyer will now look to carry his leadership experience into ODI cricket.

India Make Three Changes for the Fourth ODI Against New Zealand

Shreyas Iyer began his first match as India’s ODI captain by winning the toss at Bay Oval. He decided to bowl first against New Zealand. India also made three changes to their playing XI for the fourth ODI. Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan and Kuldeep Yadav were included in the team for this important encounter.

With his first ODI captaincy assignment underway, Shreyas Iyer will be eager to guide India to victory and begin his journey as the team’s 50-over skipper on a positive note.

All the best to Shreyas Iyer for his new responsibility!

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