- Wood’s presence will be particularly significant for India’s defensive unit.
- The two matches form part of celebrations marking 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand.
- Wood began his professional career in England.
New Zealand striker Chris Wood is set to headline the All Whites’ attack when they face India in the upcoming FIFA international friendlies in November. The Nottingham Forest forward has confirmed his availability for the two-match series, giving the Blue Tigers an opportunity to test themselves against one of the most experienced strikers in international football.
Wood’s presence will be particularly significant for India’s defensive unit, with players such as Anwar Ali and Bijoy Varghese potentially facing the challenge of containing the Premier League striker if selected. The matches will take place in Auckland on November 12 and Christchurch on November 15.
Who Is Chris Wood?
Born on December 7, 1991, in Auckland, New Zealand, Christopher Grant Wood is a professional footballer who plays as a striker for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League and represents New Zealand internationally.
Standing at 1.91 metres, Wood is known for his physical presence, aerial ability and penalty-box instincts. His height and strength make him a useful target man, while his movement and finishing allow him to threaten opposition defences in different situations.
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At 34, he remains a central figure for the All Whites. According to New Zealand Football stats, Wood has scored 45 international goals, making him the country's all-time leading men's international goalscorer. He also holds New Zealand's appearance record, with 95 caps reported ahead of the India series.
Great to have Chris Wood set to play for the All Whites again as New Zealand face India in two internationals - Auckland and Christchurch next month. @NZ_Football #football #IndianFootball https://t.co/9BpMFXZ277
— NZ Sports Wire (@NZSportsWire) October 28, 2026
Chris Wood's Journey To Nottingham Forest
and developed through spells at several clubs before establishing himself as a regular Premier League striker.
He played for Leeds United before joining Burnley in 2017, where he became an important part of the club's attack. His performances in English football eventually led to a move to Newcastle United in January 2022.
Wood subsequently joined Nottingham Forest, initially on loan in January 2023 before making the move permanent later that year.
His finest Premier League scoring form came in the 2024-25 season, when he scored 20 goals for Forest. That return showcased his ability to deliver consistently at the highest level and helped establish him as one of the club's most important attacking players.
Injury Comeback And New Zealand Responsibility
Wood's road back to international football has not been straightforward. A knee cartilage injury required surgery in December 2024 and kept him out for an extended period before he returned to action in April 2026.
His availability for the November friendlies is therefore an important news for New Zealand as the team prepares to face India on home soil.
India vs New Zealand: A Test For The Blue Tigers
The two matches form part of celebrations marking 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand. They will also mark India's first-ever senior men's football tour of New Zealand.
The first encounter will take place at Go Media Stadium in Auckland, followed by a meeting at Christchurch's One New Zealand Stadium on November 15.
New Zealand have World Cup experience, while India will look to use the fixtures to measure themselves against stronger international opposition after Brazil and Uruguay.