India and New Zealand begin their five-match T20I series at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday, October 22. Shreyas Iyer is expected to captain India as the visitors seek a competitive start, although New Zealand’s familiarity with the seam-friendly conditions could make the opening challenge significant.
India’s selection will draw considerable attention after Iyer indicated that Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson would continue as the opening pair. Teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may be left waiting for an opportunity, with the captain favouring continuity at the top of the order.
India vs New Zealand 1st T20I Details
Date: October 22, 2026
Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch
Start time: 12:30 PM IST (8:00 PM local time)
India vs New Zealand Team News
India are expected to retain their established top-order combination, with Ishan Kishan providing an aggressive option in the middle order. Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Axar Patel offer valuable all-round depth, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh are likely to lead the pace attack. The choice between Prince Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy will depend on India’s preferred bowling balance.
New Zealand are expected to capitalise on their familiarity with home conditions. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert could provide an aggressive start, while Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell add experience to the batting lineup. Mitchell Santner’s all-round ability will be important, with Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson and Lockie Ferguson offering pace and bounce.
India vs New Zealand Predicted Playing 11
India: Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav / Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh.
New Zealand: Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson.
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