India, Jan. 11 -- India began their 2026 international campaign on a confident note as captain Shubman Gill won the toss in the first ODI against New Zealand at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Vadodara on Sunday. Staying true to expectations, Gill opted to bowl first on a surface expected to assist bowlers early on, setting the tone for the three-match series.

The toss also brought a key revelation from the New Zealand camp, with skipper Michael Bracewell confirming the inclusion of Indian-origin leg-spinner Adithya Ashok as the frontline spinner in the playing XI. The decision immediately drew attention, given Ashok's growing reputation and unique journey in international cricket.

Winning the toss in the series opener, Gill s...