The India vs New Zealand T20I series begins with the first match at Nagpur, and all eyes are on India’s team combination as the countdown to the T20 World Cup 2026 enters its final phase. The opening game is not just another bilateral clash — it is a testing ground for players fighting for clarity in their roles.
According to pre-match indications and comments from the Indian camp, Ishan Kishan is expected to return to the playing XI, while Shivam Dube is likely to sit out the first T20I. The move signals India’s intent to sharpen its batting structure rather than experiment too much at this stage.
Ishan Kishan’s Return: A Big Chance Before the World Cup
One of the biggest talking points ahead of the Nagpur game is the expected inclusion of Ishan Kishan at No. 3. With Tilak Varma unavailable for the opening matches due to injury, the Indian team management has opted for Kishan, who is part of the provisional World Cup plans.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav has hinted that Kishan’s experience and aggressive batting style make him a suitable option in the middle order. This match gives the left-hander a golden opportunity to prove his value, especially after being out of the T20I setup for a considerable period.
For Kishan, this is more than just a comeback — it is a chance to cement his place at a crucial time.
Why Shivam Dube May Miss Out
Despite being in the squad, Shivam Dube is not expected to feature in the first T20I. The decision appears to be based on team balance rather than form. With India already fielding strong all-round options like Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, the management seems keen on strengthening batting depth and spin variety instead.
Dube remains a powerful hitter and could come into play later in the series depending on conditions, but for Nagpur, selectors seem to prefer a more flexible bowling combination.
Pitch and Conditions at Nagpur
The Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur has traditionally offered help to spinners, especially as the match progresses. This makes players like Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy extremely important in India’s plans.
Batters will need to spend time at the crease before playing big shots, which again explains why India may want technically sound batters in the top and middle order.
India’s Probable Playing XI – 1st T20I vs New Zealand
Based on available information and team signals, India’s likely XI could be:
- Abhishek Sharma
- Sanju Samson (wk)
- Ishan Kishan
- Suryakumar Yadav (c)
- Hardik Pandya
- Rinku Singh
- Axar Patel (vc)
- Varun Chakravarthy
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Arshdeep Singh
This combination offers a good mix of explosive batting, spin control in the middle overs, and strong death bowling.