India will begin their five-match T20I series against New Zealand on Thursday, October 22. The Indian players have travelled to New Zealand less than 24 hours after the fifth T20I against the West Indies.
One of the biggest talking points ahead of the series is the possible absence of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from the playing XI. The left-handed batter did not get a chance in any of the five T20Is against the West Indies.
After the series, captain Shreyas Iyer indicated that Sooryavanshi would have to wait for his opportunity. His comments have raised questions about whether the young batter will feature in the New Zealand series.
As fans wait for the opening match, here is a look at India’s predicted playing XI for the first T20I against New Zealand.
Who Will Open for India?
India are likely to continue with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson as their opening pair. This could mean another spell on the bench for Sooryavanshi, who did not play in any of the five T20Is against the West Indies.
The youngster was also not part of India’s playing XI in the home series against Afghanistan. He featured in the Asian Games, where India needed an extra batter in challenging conditions in Japan.
Samson is likely to get a longer run in the team, while Abhishek’s place in the playing XI appears secure. Unless the team management decides to make a change, the two are expected to open the innings in the first T20I.
Who Will Bat in the Middle Order?
Ishan Kishan is expected to bat at number three, followed by captain Shreyas Iyer. Kishan showed his hitting ability in the fifth T20I against the West Indies, scoring 30 runs off just 10 balls before rain interrupted the match.
Kishan is also set to be part of India’s leadership group during the New Zealand tour. He will assist Iyer in the final two ODIs of the tour.
India will hope the middle order can provide stability while also scoring quickly when needed.
Which All-Rounders Could Play Against New Zealand?
India could include both Shivam Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy in the first T20I. The team is still looking for the right combination to cover the all-round role associated with Hardik Pandya.
Naman Dhir has strengthened his case for a place in the playing XI with his performances. His ability to contribute with the bat makes him an important option for the team.
Axar Patel is also expected to retain his place. His left-arm spin and batting ability give India another option to maintain balance in the team.
Who Will Lead India’s Bowling Attack?
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is likely to lead the pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh. The senior pacer returned to the playing XI for the fifth T20I against the West Indies but did not get an opportunity to bowl as rain affected the match.
Interestingly, Bhuvneshwar has not bowled in international cricket since India’s previous tour of New Zealand. His performance in the upcoming series will therefore be closely watched.
Prince Yadav is expected to complete the pace attack as India look to start the series with a balanced bowling unit.
What Is India’s Predicted Playing XI for the First T20I Against New Zealand?
India’s predicted playing XI for the opening T20I on October 22 is:
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav and Arshdeep Singh.