India look to tighten their grip on the five-match T20I series when they face New Zealand in the second match at Raipur after a dominant opening win. New Zealand, under pressure after a heavy defeat, need a sharp turnaround to level the series.
Match details are outlined clearly below.
The match is India vs New Zealand, 2nd T20I.
The series is New Zealand tour of India 2026.
The date is Friday, January 23, 2026.
The venue is Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.
The start time is 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time, and 1:30 PM GMT.
Series situation and recent form
India enter the second T20I with confidence after a comprehensive 48-run victory in Nagpur. Batting first, the hosts posted 238 for 7, their highest-ever T20I total against New Zealand. Despite losing two early wickets, India recovered quickly through an aggressive counterattack led by Abhishek Sharma. His fearless approach changed the momentum and set the tone for the innings. Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya ensured stability through the middle overs, while Rinku Singh’s unbeaten late surge pushed the total beyond New Zealand’s reach.
New Zealand struggled early in the chase and never fully recovered. The loss of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra for one run left them chasing the game from the outset. Glenn Phillips showed intent and power with a 78-run knock, but the required rate kept increasing. India’s bowlers maintained control, particularly during the middle overs, to seal a convincing win and take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Team overview and approach
India’s T20I setup continues to focus on aggressive top-order batting backed by depth in all-rounders and varied bowling options. Abhishek Sharma’s emergence at the top adds explosiveness, while Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership provides clarity in approach. With players like Hardik Pandya and Rinku Singh finishing strongly, India look well-equipped to dominate batting-friendly conditions.
New Zealand rely heavily on balance and adaptability. Their top order needs early stability to allow players like Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell to play with freedom. Captain Mitchell Santner’s role becomes crucial, both as a containing bowler and a tactical leader, especially on slower surfaces like Raipur.
Pitch report and conditions
The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur is known for its relatively slow surface, which often brings cutters and change-of-pace bowling into play. Medium-fast bowlers who vary their pace tend to find assistance, particularly as the innings progresses. However, recent pitch preparations across the series suggest a more batting-friendly track, raising expectations of another high-scoring encounter. Teams batting first may look to post a strong total and apply scoreboard pressure.
Head-to-head record
India and New Zealand have met 26 times in T20Is. India hold a slight advantage with 13 wins, while New Zealand have won 10 matches. Three games ended in ties or produced no result. Their most recent meeting on January 21, 2026, ended in India’s favour, further strengthening the hosts’ confidence going into this contest.
Probable playing XIs
India probable XI: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson as wicketkeeper, Suryakumar Yadav as captain, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand probable XI: Tim Robinson, Devon Conway as wicketkeeper, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner as captain, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.
Key players to watch
Abhishek Sharma stands out as the batter to watch after his blistering 84 off 35 balls in the first T20I. His ability to attack from the outset allows India to dictate terms early in the innings.
Hardik Pandya’s role with the ball also remains vital. He bowled economically in Nagpur and removed a key batter early. Sharing the new ball with Arshdeep Singh, his experience and control could prove decisive again.
For New Zealand, Glenn Phillips remains their biggest threat with the bat, while Ish Sodhi’s spin could become important if the surface slows down.
Live streaming and broadcast information
In India, the second T20I will be broadcast live on the JioStar Network channels, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the match through official sports channels carrying India tour broadcasts and their respective digital platforms. In the United Kingdom, licensed sports broadcasters will provide live TV coverage along with streaming through official apps. Australian viewers can follow the match on approved sports networks and streaming services. Global audiences can access coverage through regional broadcasters holding official rights for international cricket.
Match prediction and analysis
India hold the upper hand after their dominant opening performance, particularly with the depth and flexibility in their batting lineup. New Zealand need early wickets and improved powerplay execution to stay competitive. Given the Raipur surface and recent trends, the team batting first may enjoy a slight advantage if they post a challenging total. Execution under pressure, rather than conditions alone, is likely to determine the outcome of this contest.
