India vs New Zealand T20I series set to begin Nagpur (Image Credit:- X)

The five match T20I series between India and New Zealand is set to kick off in Nagpur today (21 -Jan-26). This series offers both teams a final rehearsal ahead of the T20 World Cup next month. New Zealand look to change history as they aim for their first T20I series win in India.

After beating India 3-0 in a Test series just over a year ago , Kiwis won first ODI series 2-1 in India last Sunday. A confident, near full strength New Zealand side look to upset India in the T20I series as well.

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Captain Suryakumar Yadhav needs to rediscover his form after enduring a prolonged lean run with the bat. His form will be crucial for India ahead of the T20 World Cup. This series presents a big opportunity for him to find his lost touch.

In this World Cup cycle, India have won 29 of their 36 matches played so far. New Zealand, on the other hand, have won 15 of their 26 matches played so far.

Team News

Ishan Kishan will bat at No.3 in place of injured Tilak Varma, captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed. Harshit Rana, who showcased his power hitting ability in ODI series, may find a place in the squad.

India Probable XI:- Abhishek Sharma , Sanju Samson (wk) , Ishan Kishan , Suryakumar Yadhav (c) , Hardik Pandya , Shivam Dube , Axar Patel , Harshit Rana , Kuldeep Yadhav , Jasprit Bumrah , Varun Chakravarthy.

Mitchell Santner , Matthew Henry and Mark Chapman have recovered from injuries and are set to find a place in the playing XI. Michael Bracewell, who is recovering from a calf starin, is unlikely to feature in the first T20.

New Zealand Probable XI:- Tim Robinson , Devon Conway (wk) , Rachin Ravindra , Daryl Mitchell , Glenn Phillips , Mark Chapman , James Neesham , Mitchell Santner (c) , Matt Henry , Ish Sodhi , Jacob Duffy.

Pitch Report and Weather

The Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium pitch in Nagpur provides a fair contest, offering equal advantage to both batters and bowlers. As the match progresses, the pitch will increasingly assist bowlers, particularly spinners, due to the long boundaries.

No chance for rain and perfect condition for the game.

Time

Match will begin at 07:00 PM (IST).