India could reshuffle their batting order for the remaining matches of the ODI series against New Zealand, with Ruturaj Gaikwad in contention to partner Rohit Sharma at the top. The move would give Gaikwad an opportunity to make an impression after Shubman Gill's departure from the ODI group for the upcoming Test assignment.

India are also considering releasing fast bowler Gurnoor Brar from the squad so that he can join the Test preparations in Wellington. The team management is expected to take a final call after the fourth ODI, with the visitors looking to manage their resources ahead of a busy schedule.

New Zealand look to avoid home ODI series defeat

New Zealand's long-standing record of avoiding a home ODI series defeat is under threat after India took control of the ongoing contest. The Black Caps had gone 11 consecutive home ODI series without losing before this campaign, but the results against India have put that run in danger. Winning both remaining matches would give the hosts a chance to finish the series in a draw.

The two teams will also have to deal with changes to their support staff and player groups as attention begins shifting towards the Test series. India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed that the coaching staff would split, with Gautam Gambhir and spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule remaining with the ODI squad, while Kotak, Morne Morkel and Subhadeep Ghosh will join the Test group.

The conditions could offer a better opportunity for batters after the seam-friendly surfaces in Auckland and Hamilton. The forecast is favourable for both remaining matches, raising the possibility of fuller contests without weather interruptions.

India plan Ruturaj Gaikwad-Rohit Sharma opening pair

According to a report in The Times of India, Ruturaj Gaikwad is likely to come into the playing XI as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma for the fourth ODI. Shubman Gill's absence has opened up a place at the top, and the team management appears keen to give Ruturaj Gaikwad the opportunity.

The report also suggests that the team is considering Ishan Kishan for a middle-order role rather than using him as an opener. A late change remains possible, but the indications from training sessions point towards this combination.

India's batters had extended sessions in the nets ahead of the match. Ruturaj Gaikwad reportedly looked comfortable during his time in the middle and will be eager to make the most of a potential opportunity. Tilak Varma also spent considerable time batting as the team assessed its options.

Gurnoor Brar likely to be released for Test preparations

India could also make a change to their bowling group, with Gurnoor Brar expected to be released after the fourth ODI. The final decision is likely to come after the match.

Brar is not part of India's Test squad but has been asked to stay with the team. New Zealand's tall fast bowlers have prompted the management to consider keeping him around the Test group in Wellington as preparations continue.

The possible release would allow Brar to work with the Test set-up, while India assess their pace-bowling options for the final two ODIs.