Our Bureau
Wellington
New Zealand’s cricket team will wear a special limited-edition jersey during its upcoming five-match One Day International (ODI) series against India to commemorate 100 years of sporting ties between the two countries. Named ‘Kotahitanga’, meaning unity, the jersey combines traditional Maori artwork with Indian cultural motifs to celebrate the shared sporting history of New Zealand and India.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) unveiled the jersey on October 10, ahead of the team’s home series against India, scheduled to begin on November 4. The design brings together artistic elements from both cultures, reflecting the role of sport in strengthening international relationships.
Three artists, Ben Thomason, Shiv Narandas and Jai Pancha, collaborated on the jersey. Thomason incorporated traditional Maori patterns, including kowhaiwhai scrollwork and haehae lines, while Narandas and Pancha introduced Indian elements such as the lotus, the country’s national flower, an ogee pattern inspired by Indian architecture, and mandala art.
According to NZC, the artwork honours the people who have helped build sporting connections between the two nations over the decades. The cricket board also expressed hope that the commemorative jersey would become a treasured keepsake for fans in both countries.
NZC Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer Glenn Critchley said the design achieved a balance between Maori and Indian artistic traditions while highlighting the bond between the nations. Narandas, whose family originates from India, described the project as a meaningful opportunity to represent the cultural connection through sport.
The sporting relationship between India and New Zealand dates back to 1926, when an Indian Army hockey team toured New Zealand. Cricketing ties developed later, with New Zealand playing its first Test match in India in Hyderabad in November 1955.
Before the ODI series, the two teams will compete in a five-match Twenty20 International series beginning October 22. The ODI leg will start on November 4, with both teams also using the tour to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The limited-edition jersey will be available through New Zealand Cricket’s online store and selected retail outlets in New Zealand.