IND vs NZ: Team India Likely to Make Two Changes in Playing XI for Second T20

Raipur: Team India will take on New Zealand in the second T20 of the five-match series today at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur. After a commanding 48-run win in the series opener, India looks to extend their lead to 2-0, with two changes expected in the playing XI.

Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma to Open
While Sanju Samson struggled in the first T20, Abhishek Sharma starred with a blistering 84 off just 35 balls in Nagpur, showcasing his power-hitting prowess. In the Raipur clash, India may deploy this left-right opening combination to give the innings a fiery start.

Shreyas Iyer Returns
Shreyas Iyer is back in the squad following Tilak Varma’s injury but didn’t feature in the first T20. In the second match, Iyer is likely to replace Ishan Kishan. With the T20 World Cup in mind, captain Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir may use this opportunity to test Iyer’s form and readiness for the global tournament.

Strong Middle Order
India’s middle order looks solid. Captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to bat at number four, followed by dependable finisher Hardik Pandya and Rinku Singh. Pandya’s role as a third seamer and Rinku’s ability to clear the boundary with ease adds significant depth to the batting lineup.

Spin Department Options
Raipur’s pitch traditionally aids spinners, raising the possibility of Kuldeep Yadav or Ravi Bishnoi replacing Shivam Dubey. World No.1 T20 bowler Varun Chakravarthy, alongside vice-captain Axar Patel, will lead the spin attack. With Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh in fine form, India’s bowling unit is well balanced and formidable.

India’s Probable Playing XI:
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan/Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah.

India will look to consolidate their dominance in the series, while New Zealand will aim to bounce back and level the contest.