NEW ZEALAND CRICKET (NZC) has reportedly requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India to increase the number of One-Day Internationals during India national cricket team’s upcoming tour of New Zealand, according to a CricHub report.
The tour is currently scheduled to include two Tests, three ODIs and five T20 Internationals. However, the hosts are keen to expand the 50-over leg of the tour. According to reports, NZC has proposed increasing the ODI series from three matches to five.
The proposal is largely driven by strong fan interest and commercial potential. A key factor behind the request is the continued popularity of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom are currently focusing only on ODI cricket for the national team.
Their presence on overseas tours often draws large crowds and generates significant broadcast interest. NZC believes that adding two more ODI matches could further boost ticket sales and broadcast revenues.
The final decision will depend on scheduling and logistical considerations. If both boards reach an agreement, the revised tour schedule could be announced in due course.
Before travelling to New Zealand, Kohli and Sharma are expected to feature in India’s home ODI series against Afghanistan, England and West Indies.
