India cancelled training as rain disrupted New Zealand's preparations in Wellington ahead of the second ODI, with Mohammed Siraj's possible inclusion adding to the selection intrigue. Heavy rain is forecast for match day, raising concerns over another washout. India lead the five-match series 1-0

Kamboj has had forgettable outings in international cricket but he ensured Auckland didn't follow the pattern. With relentless lengths, sharp use of the wobble seam and speeds, the highly-rated Haryana bowler showed why the management didn't give up on him.

New Zealand has witnessed two defining milestones in Shubman Gill's early career. After an India U-19 World Cup title and ODI debut, he hits these shores as leader of men. Seven years after being handed the cap by MS Dhoni, he returns as India's captain, carrying the expectations of a billion fans and the responsibility of building a team for the 2027 World Cup.

India's fielding will face an early test at Auckland's Eden Park, where unfamiliar dimensions and tricky angles demand quick adaptation. With 27 catches dropped in their last 18 ODIs, the focus is on sharpening ground fielding and improving catching efficiency ahead of the New Zealand series.