New Zealand
West Indies
The opening One Day International (ODI) between New Zealand and the West Indies will take place on Sunday, November 16, 2025, marking the start of the visitors’ 2025–26 tour of New Zealand. This day-night encounter at Hagley Oval in Christchurch promises a competitive start to the three-match series, with both sides aiming to set the tone early.
Play begins at 2:00 PM local time, with the first session running until 5:30 PM, followed by a 40-minute break before the second session resumes at 6:10 PM. The remaining ODIs of the series will be held in Napier and Hamilton.
The contest comes on the heels of a T20I series that saw New Zealand emerge victorious. With both teams unveiling their squads for the ODIs, featuring a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, fans can expect an exciting battle to kick off the limited-overs leg of the tour.
Santner’s dual impact with bat and ball, plus his leadership role, makes him a good value pick for this market.
The betting tip is...
Player of the Match - Mitchell Santner
61 %
39 %
New ZealandWest IndiesNew Zealand will head into the first ODI against the West Indies on November 16, 2025, under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, who continues to captain the side in Kane Williamson’s absence.
Williamson, having recently retired from T20 internationals, is focusing on the upcoming Test series and will sit out the ODIs. The squad sees the return of pacer Matt Henry, adding depth to New Zealand’s bowling attack, while Tom Latham’s participation remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a shoulder issue.
After clinching a 3-1 victory in the preceding T20I series, the Black Caps will aim to extend their winning form into the 50-over contests.
Balck Caps will go with the strongest playing XI in the first ODI.
Predicted Lineup: Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wicketkeeper), Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Blair Tickner, Jacob Duffy
After a string of strong performances in domestic and Test cricket, John Campbell has earned a recall to the West Indies ODI squad for the tour of New Zealand. Brandon King, however, has been left out following a dip in form.
The squad introduces fresh talent, with fast bowler Johann Layne and all-rounder Shamar Springer receiving their first ODI call-ups, while Matthew Forde returns to strengthen the pace department.
Led by Shai Hope, the West Indies will be eager to gain vital ranking points in their push toward qualification for the 2027 World Cup and will aim to begin the series on a high against a well-balanced New Zealand outfit.
West Indies will be playing their strongest XI in the first match.
Predicted Lineup: Alick Athanaze, Brandon King, John Campbell, Shai Hope (captain and wicketkeeper), Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Jayden Seales.
In the opening ODI, New Zealand are expected to begin as firm favourites on home turf, buoyed by their recent T20I series win and a well-rounded squad. The return of seasoned pacer Matt Henry adds strength to their bowling unit, while the all-round skills of captain Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra give the side crucial balance.
For the West Indies, John Campbell’s inclusion will add depth to their batting lineup, and newcomers like Johann Layne bring fresh energy to the pace attack.
However, their lack of experience and inconsistent record away from home position them as underdogs against a confident New Zealand team well-versed in the conditions at Hagley Oval.
