How is the Indian T20I team preparing for the series against New Zealand?
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Synopsis
As India's T20I team gears up for a critical five-match series against New Zealand, preparations have intensified. The upcoming matches not only serve as a challenge but also as a vital step in their journey towards the Men’s T20 World Cup title defense. Will they rise to the occasion?
Key Takeaways
- India's T20 squad is actively preparing for the series against New Zealand.
- The first match is scheduled for January 21 in Nagpur.
- This series is crucial for India's T20 World Cup title defense.
- Key players are participating in practice sessions to enhance fitness and skills.
- Recent changes in the squad reflect India's strategic planning for the future.
Nagpur, Jan 18 (NationPress) Members of India’s T20 squad have commenced their preparations for the forthcoming five-match series against New Zealand at the New VCA Stadium, which is scheduled to host the first match on January 21. This series marks India's final challenge in the T20 format prior to their title defense in the Men’s T20 World Cup, starting on February 7.
Among those participating in the optional practice session on Sunday were Captain Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Sanju Samson.
However, seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya opted out of the session but is expected to join the practice under lights on Monday. “The T20I squad gathered for an optional session from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, which emphasized fitness and skill development,” a Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) official noted.
Another practice session is scheduled from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm on Monday, where Hardik is likely to make an appearance. Meanwhile, the remaining team members currently engaged in the ODI series in Indore are anticipated to arrive in Nagpur by Monday afternoon, along with the New Zealand squad.
Following the Nagpur match, the teams will meet again on January 23 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, January 25 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, January 28 at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam, and January 31 at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
Recently, India added Bishnoi, a leg-spinner, and Shreyas Iyer, a middle-order batsman, to the squad, replacing Washington Sundar (side strain) and Tilak Varma (lower abdomen surgery). Iyer is expected to participate in only the first three matches, with Varma aiming to return for the last two games.
The two teams are concurrently competing in a three-match ODI series, with the third game taking place in Indore on Sunday.
Point of View
The Indian T20I team's preparations are critical not just for the upcoming series but also for their long-term strategy in international cricket. The blend of seasoned players and fresh talent showcases India's commitment to maintaining their competitive edge. The upcoming matches against New Zealand will test their synergy and readiness as they aim for success in the T20 World Cup.
NationPress
18/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the T20I series against New Zealand start?
The T20I series against New Zealand begins on January 21 at the New VCA Stadium in Nagpur.
Who are the key players in the Indian T20 squad?
Key players in the Indian T20 squad include Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, and Hardik Pandya.
What is the significance of this series for India?
This series is India's final preparation before defending their title in the Men’s T20 World Cup, starting on February 7.
Where will the subsequent matches be played?
After Nagpur, the matches will be held in Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Who replaced Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma in the squad?
Bishnoi and Shreyas Iyer have been drafted into the squad to replace Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma.
