Published: Jan 07, 2026, 09:49 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 07, 2026, 09:50 PM (IST)
Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill arrived at Vadodara Airport on Wednesday ahead of the ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11. His arrival created excitement in the city, as the New Zealand team also reached Vadodara on the same day.
Gill received a warm welcome from fans who gathered at the airport to see their captain. The 26-year-old batter acknowledged the crowd and greeted supporters with a smile.
The New Zealand team, also known as the Blackcaps, were welcomed with loud chants as they came out of the terminal. Some players looked surprised by the huge turnout and were even seen recording videos of the moment.
Later in the afternoon, Virat Kohli’s arrival drew massive attention at Vadodara Airport. Fans chanted “Kohli, Kohli†as a large crowd gathered to welcome the star batter. Despite tight security, the situation became chaotic when Kohli exited the terminal, forcing security officials to step in and escort him safely to his car.
India and New Zealand will play the first ODI of the three-match series at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi. A packed stadium is expected as fans look forward to watching top players from both teams.
This ODI series will be Gill’s first international assignment after missing out on India’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. He has an impressive record against New Zealand, scoring 623 runs in 12 matches, including two centuries and two half-centuries.
Gill last played an ODI during the Australia tour last year, where he struggled with form and failed to cross 30 runs in three innings. As he returns to the 50-over format, the Indian opener will be eager to find form against a New Zealand side that will be without star player Kane Williamson.
