India tour of New Zealand 2026 full schedule announced; NZC set to host biggest tour in its history

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India tour of New Zealand 2026 is set to create history after New Zealand Cricket unveiled the schedule for what will become the biggest international tour ever hosted by the board. The much-anticipated series will see the two teams face each other across all three formats in a packed schedule that promises plenty of high-quality cricket.

The tour carries added significance as it will mark India's return to Test cricket in New Zealand for the first time since 2019. It will also be India's first white-ball assignment in the country since 2022.

New Zealand Cricket set to host India in its largest international tour

New Zealand Cricket recently announced its international home schedule, with India's all-format tour emerging as the headline attraction. The Black Caps will take on India in five T20Is, five ODIs and two Test matches in a 12-game itinerary that will become the largest international tour ever hosted by New Zealand Cricket in terms of total matches.

The series is expected to be one of the biggest highlights of New Zealand's home summer, which also features a busy calendar for both the men's and women's teams. Apart from the cricketing rivalry, the tour will coincide with celebrations marking 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand.

The rivalry between the two sides has grown significantly in recent years, producing several memorable contests across ICC tournaments and bilateral series. The upcoming tour will provide another chapter in that rivalry as India return to New Zealand after a gap of several years in both Test and limited-overs cricket.

"When it comes to cricket, it simply doesn't get bigger than India" - Glenn Critchley

New Zealand Cricket Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer Glenn Critchley expressed his excitement about the upcoming home season and highlighted the significance of India's visit.

"It's going to be another exciting summer and we're delighted to be able to bring 42 days of international cricket to Kiwi cricket fans across eight cities," Critchley said.

The NZC official also described India's visit as a unique opportunity for cricket fans in New Zealand and believes the tour will extend beyond the action on the field.

"When it comes to cricket – it simply doesn't get bigger than India and we're determined to deliver New Zealanders a tour like no other."

Critchley added that the tour would celebrate the long-standing relationship between the two nations while also showcasing one of cricket's most exciting modern rivalries. He further stated that the presence of star players such as Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah is expected to generate huge interest among supporters.

"The passion and the following this team has is staggering," Critchley said while urging fans to secure their tickets early, with New Zealand Cricket expecting strong demand throughout the series.

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India tour of New Zealand 2026 full schedule: