India vs New Zealand Test Series 2026: Full Squad, Schedule & Fixture Details
The Indian cricket team is currently in the middle of a massive and highly anticipated tour of New Zealand. Following the thrill of the white-ball leg (T20Is and ODIs), cricket fans across the globe are now eagerly waiting for the India vs New Zealand Test Series 2026. This upcoming two-match series is a crucial part of the current ICC World Test Championship (WTC 2025-27) cycle, making it a high-stakes battle for both sides.
Looking to solidify their position on the WTC points table, the home side is leaving nothing to chance. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has officially announced a formidable 14-member squad for the series. Let’s dive into the squad details, key player updates, and the complete schedule for these crucial matches.
New Zealand’s 14-Member Test Squad (Rachin Ravindra Returns)
To challenge the formidable Indian lineup, the Blackcaps will be led by the experienced and calm Tom Latham. The most significant and welcoming news for the Kiwi camp is the return of their star all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra. Having been sidelined due to injury, a fully fit Ravindra is now back in the mix and ready to make an impact.
The squad also sees the inclusion of pace bowler Jacob Duffy. However, injuries have ruled out promising talents like Ben Sears, Zak Foulkes, and Will O'Rourke from this crucial series against India.
New Zealand Official Test Squad 2026 vs India:
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Tom Latham | Captain |
| Tom Blundell | Wicketkeeper (WK) |
| Devon Conway | Batter |
| Will Young | Batter |
| Henry Nicholls | Batter |
| Rachin Ravindra | Batting All-Rounder |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-Rounder |
| Glenn Phillips | Batting All-Rounder |
| Mitchell Santner | Bowling All-Rounder |
| Matt Henry | Fast Bowler |
| Kyle Jamieson | Fast Bowler |
| Jacob Duffy | Fast Bowler |
| Blair Tickner | Fast Bowler |
| Nathan Smith | Bowler |
New Zealand’s head coach, Rob Walter, has expressed his team’s eagerness to face a top-tier side like India in front of their home crowd. With vital WTC points on the line, Team India is also gearing up for the challenge, bringing a balanced mix of youth and experience to the fast, bouncy Kiwi pitches.
Complete Schedule: India vs New Zealand Test Series 2026
This much-awaited Test series will be played across two of New Zealand's most iconic cricket venues. For fans watching from India, the matches will feature early morning starts.
Here is the complete schedule, including dates, venues, and timings:
| Match | Date | Venue | Indian Standard Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | November 19 – 23, 2026 | Basin Reserve, Wellington | 03:30 AM |
| 2nd Test | Nov 27 – Dec 1, 2026 | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | 03:30 AM |
(Note: Due to the significant time zone difference between New Zealand and India, both Test matches will begin at 3:30 AM IST for Indian viewers.)
Frequently asked questions
When does the India vs New Zealand 2026 Test series start?
The Test series kicks off with the first match on November 19, 2026, at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.
Who is the captain of the New Zealand Test team against India?
Experienced opening batter Tom Latham has been appointed to lead the New Zealand squad for this Test series.
What time will the IND vs NZ Test matches start in India (IST)?
Both Test matches in New Zealand will start early in the morning at 3:30 AM Indian Standard Time (IST).
