India and New Zealand are set to clash in an exciting five-match T20 International series, starting with the 1st T20I on January 21, 2026. The series begins right after India’s 1-2 defeat in the three-match ODI series and marks the start of the shorter-format leg of New Zealand’s tour of India.
This T20 series is extremely important for Team India as they prepare for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The matches will help the team management test combinations and identify players for the global event.
India vs New Zealand 1st T20I: Team India Preparation
Team India has already started arriving in Nagpur ahead of the first T20I. Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson and big hitter Rinku Singh reached the city early to train and get familiar with the conditions at the VCA International Stadium.
Under the captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian team has been practicing at the venue, focusing on strategies, team balance, and match-winning combinations for the five-match series.
India vs New Zealand 1st T20I: Predicted Playing XI (India)
Abhishek Sharma
Sanju Samson (WK)
Ishan Kishan
Suryakumar Yadav (C)
Hardik Pandya
Axar Patel
Shivam Dube
Rinku Singh
Arshdeep Singh
Jasprit Bumrah
Varun Chakravarthy
India vs New Zealand 1st T20I: Venue and Match Time
The India vs New Zealand 1st T20I will be played at the VCA International Stadium, Jamtha, Nagpur, on January 21, 2026. The match will begin at 7:00 PM IST.
Tickets are already on sale, and a full house is expected as local fans turn up in large numbers to support India after the ODI series loss.
India vs New Zealand T20I Series: Full Schedule Venues
The matches of the T20 series will be played across different cities in India, giving fans nationwide a chance to witness the action live. The venues include:
Nagpur
Raipur
Guwahati
Visakhapatnam
Thiruvananthapuram
India vs New Zealand T20 Series: Importance Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
This series is crucial for the Indian selectors and team management. Each player will be closely monitored based on form, fitness, and role clarity ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year.
Several players will get the opportunity to prove their worth and compete for a permanent place in India’s World Cup squad. With strong line-ups, high intensity, and growing rivalry, the India vs New Zealand T20I series promises thrilling cricket for fans.
Also read : Â Pakistan May Reconsider T20 World Cup 2026 Participation Amid India-Bangladesh Standoff
