India begin their five-match T20I series against New Zealand with a clear objective of regaining momentum after a 2-1 ODI series defeat. The opening game in Nagpur marks the final phase of preparation for both sides ahead of the T20 World Cup, with team combinations and form firmly under scrutiny.
The series opener carries added importance for India as they look to stabilise their top order and leadership group before entering the global tournament.
Match details
Match India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I
Series New Zealand tour of India 2026, T20I series
Date Wednesday, January 21
Venue Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur
Start time 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
India Team Overview
India enter the T20I series with several talking points following their ODI setback. The management continues to refine its batting combinations after late changes to the World Cup squad announced last month. The absence of Tilak Varma for the first three matches due to abdominal surgery places greater responsibility on the remaining top-order options.
Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma are expected to provide attacking intent early, while Ishan Kishan offers flexibility across the order. Suryakumar Yadav leads the side and remains central to India’s T20 plans due to his ability to control tempo and dominate spin. The middle order features power and balance through Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube, giving India depth till the lower order.
India’s bowling attack looks settled and experienced. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh handle the pace duties, while Varun Chakaravarthy provides mystery spin in the middle overs. Axar Patel’s all-round value strengthens both departments, making India a well-rounded unit despite recent inconsistencies.
New Zealand Team Overview
New Zealand approach the series with quiet confidence after their ODI success and a squad built for adaptability. Finn Allen and Devon Conway form a dynamic opening partnership, capable of setting strong foundations. Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell bring power and stability to the middle order, while Rachin Ravindra adds all-round balance.
Mitchell Santner captains the side and remains a key figure with both bat and ball. The bowling unit features variety, with Lockie Ferguson offering raw pace, Matt Henry delivering consistency, and Ish Sodhi providing wicket-taking leg-spin. James Neesham’s experience in Indian conditions further strengthens New Zealand’s depth.
Head-to-Head Record
India and New Zealand have shared a competitive rivalry across formats. In ODIs, the two teams have faced each other 25 times, with India winning 15 matches and New Zealand claiming 10 victories. While T20I records often vary with conditions, recent contests highlight how closely matched the sides remain.
Pitch Report and Conditions
The Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur traditionally offers a balanced surface. Batters who apply themselves early can score freely, while spinners tend to come into play as the pitch wears. Fast bowlers who vary pace and length also find assistance during the middle overs. A first-innings score in the range of 165 to 180 is expected to be competitive, depending on dew conditions later in the evening.
Predicted Playing XIs
India
Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy
New Zealand
Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wicketkeeper), Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (captain), Rachin Ravindra, James Neesham, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi
Key Areas of Focus
India’s top-order stability remains under the spotlight following recent reshuffles. How quickly the opening pair settles will influence the rest of the series. For New Zealand, adapting their aggressive batting style to Indian surfaces and handling quality spin will define their success.
Broadcast and Live Streaming Information
The India vs New Zealand 1st T20I will be televised live on the Star Sports Network in India. Digital viewers can stream the match on the JioHotstar app and website. In Pakistan, the match will be available through Star Sports on cable platforms. UK viewers can watch the series on Sky Sports Cricket, while Australian audiences can follow the action via Fox Sports and Kayo Sports. Global viewers can access official broadcasters aligned with their regional cricket networks.
Match Prediction
India hold a slight edge in home conditions, particularly with their experienced bowling attack and middle-order depth. New Zealand’s disciplined approach and adaptable squad ensure a competitive contest, especially if their top order fires early. The outcome is likely to hinge on how India’s new batting combinations perform under pressure. On balance, India enter the series opener as narrow favourites, but New Zealand remain fully capable of upsetting the hosts if they control the middle overs.
