India-New Zealand five-match ODI series begins Wednesday, with India's record in New Zealand weak

The five-match ODI series between India and New Zealand begins on Wednesday, November 4. The Indian team will take the field under captain Shubman Gill. India beat New Zealand 3-2 in the T20 series played recently, which has lifted the confidence of the ODI squad as well.

Both India and New Zealand are known for strong and spirited ODI cricket, and the two sides have consistently pushed each other. Which of them will come out on top in this five-match series will become clear in the coming days. Before that, a look at the head-to-head numbers.

India and New Zealand have played 116 ODIs so far. India won 60 of them and New Zealand won 50, while 6 matches ended without a result. The numbers favour India.

However, Team India's record in New Zealand is not very good. The two sides have played 45 matches there. India won 14, lost 26 and 5 ended without a result. India will now aim to change that record.

New Zealand have already suffered a double blow before the series, with Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman ruled out of the squad for the matches against India.

In batting, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The series is considered important for them with the upcoming World Cup in view, and their batting will be crucial for Team India. Captain Shubman Gill is also in fine form. In the middle order, India's batting will rely on KL Rahul, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer and Naman Dhir.

In bowling, India will have to play without star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who will not feature in this series. As a result, the bowling is said to look somewhat weaker. Even so, Mohammed Siraj will be responsible for taking wickets in the powerplay. He will be supported by young and talented bowlers Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar and Anshul Kamboj.

India can post a big total on the strength of their batting. Even so, the bouncy pitches in New Zealand will be the real test for the Indian bowlers.