Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has picked his current ODI World XI ahead of the five-match series between India and New Zealand, naming six Indian players in his preferred lineup. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s YouTube channel, Pujara selected a combination of in-form batters, experienced bowlers and versatile all-rounders based on their performances and contributions in the 50-over format.
Pujara’s top three featured Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, reflecting India’s strength at the top of the ODI batting order. Gill has been particularly impressive in 2026, emerging as the leading run-scorer in ODIs with 895 runs at an outstanding average of nearly 112.
Rohit and Kohli have also maintained their consistency, featuring among the top 10 ODI run-scorers this year. Rohit has averaged 50.33, while Kohli has recorded an impressive average of 69, further strengthening their positions in Pujara’s preferred lineup. England’s Joe Root occupied the No. 4 position. The experienced batter has scored 680 ODI runs in 2026 at an average of 85, making him one of the most productive players in the format this year.
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Pujara selected Shai Hope at No. 5, followed by India’s KL Rahul at No. 6. Rahul has averaged close to 81 across 10 ODIs in 2026, underlining his value as a middle-order batter and wicketkeeper. Hope has also been in excellent form, averaging 68.14 in 10 matches this year. South African all-rounder Marco Jansen completed the top seven, offering balance with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
One notable omission from Pujara’s ODI World XI was India’s T20I captain Shreyas Iyer. Despite averaging 45.50 in ODIs at a strike rate of nearly 98, Iyer did not find a place in the former batter’s selection.
Pujara chose Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah as two of his four specialist bowlers. Although Kuldeep has featured in only half of India’s 10 ODIs this year and Bumrah has played just two, both remain influential options because of their experience and ability to make an impact in crucial matches. The pair have also played important roles in India’s success in international cricket, including the team’s run to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
New Zealand’s Matt Henry and West Indies pacer Jayden Seales completed Pujara’s XI. Henry remains a key new-ball option for New Zealand, despite not featuring in an ODI this year. Seales, meanwhile, impressed during the recent ODI series in India, claiming four wickets across three matches on batting-friendly pitches.
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Pujara’s selection combines current form with proven international experience, highlighting the depth of talent available across several teams in the 50-over format.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Current ODI World XI: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Shai Hope, KL Rahul, Marco Jansen, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Matt Henry and Jayden Seales.
