India-New Zealand T20 series: Final World Cup rehearsal as Team India eyes perfect playing XI

With the T20 World Cup just days away, the five-match New Zealand series has become a decisive dress rehearsal for Team India, where every match will influence combinations, form, and confidence.

The upcoming five-match T20 series against New Zealand has gained massive importance for Team India, coming just days before the start of the T20 World Cup. With limited time left before the global tournament, this series is being viewed as the final rehearsal to fine-tune strategies and lock the playing eleven.

For Team India, the New Zealand series is not just another bilateral contest. It is during this series that the management is expected to finalize the World Cup combination. Each match is set to serve as a learning platform for the young Indian side, making every performance crucial.

In the opening match at Nagpur, left-handed batter Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are expected to begin as openers. Both batters are eager to provide an aggressive start and put pressure on the New Zealand bowlers from the very first over. Their ability to dominate the powerplay will be closely monitored.

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The batting line-up also includes experienced players, with Shreyas Iyer returning as a key figure and the T20 captain leading the middle order. While the series is being seen as a major test for Shreyas Iyer’s comeback, it is equally vital for the captain to regain form and confidence ahead of the World Cup.

There are strong indications that in-form wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan could find a place in the playing eleven. However, clarity is still missing on whether he will be used at the top order or in the middle order. All-rounder Shivam Dube is also under close watch, leaving uncertainty over which of the two will have to wait for an opportunity.

Finisher Rinku Singh faces stiff competition for a spot, especially after Harshit Rana impressed with his batting abilities. The final call on Rinku’s place will depend on whether the coach views Rana as a finisher or primarily as a specialist bowler.

In the bowling department, Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy are almost certain to feature. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, however, will compete for a place alongside them and could get an opportunity in one or two matches as the series progresses.

Unlike the ODI series, where New Zealand experimented with newcomers, the T20 squad will feature experienced and star players. Led by Mitchell Santner, the visitors will look to challenge India and dent their confidence before the World Cup.