For the first time in men’s T20I cricket, five Indian bowlers conceded 40 or more runs in an innings as New Zealand posted 225/4 in the first T20I in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22). Finn Allen scored 45 off 24 balls, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 82 off 40 deliveries to help the hosts dominate India’s bowling attack. Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded 49 runs in four overs, while Arshdeep Singh gave away 45, Mayank Yadav 40, Axar Patel 51 and Nitish Reddy 40.&nbsp;New Zealand’s total was their joint-highest against India in T20Is and their highest score at home against the visitors. With Jasprit Bumrah missing from the squad, India’s bowling attack struggled to control the scoring despite some early swing.&nbsp;New Zealand’s openers handled the movement well before attacking the Indian bowlers, as Tim Seifert scored 24 off 17 balls, while Allen took charge during the powerplay.&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar, playing his first international match in nearly four years, started with a decent first over, however, Seifert hit him for two fours and a six over long-on in his next over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-pacer-megan-schutt-faces-two-match-ban-over-medication-breach-1792661715017">Australian pacer Megan Schutt faces two-match ban over medication breach</a>&nbsp;Allen then attacked Arshdeep in the following over, which cost India 17 runs and gave New Zealand an early advantage. The hosts regularly found boundaries on the off-side.&nbsp;Mayank Yadav was introduced during the powerplay and provided India with a breakthrough when Seifert was caught behind off the last ball of the fifth over.&nbsp;Axar Patel conceded two sixes in the final over of the powerplay, with Finn Allen hitting one over long-off before Daryl Mitchell stepped out to clear the long-on boundary. New Zealand finished the powerplay at 65/1 after six overs.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-rohit-and-kohli-play-odi-world-cup-2027-bcci-president-manhas-says-board-not-in-a-position-to-comment-1792660012314">Will Rohit, Kohli play ODI WC 2027? BCCI prez Manhas says 'depends on selectors'</a>&nbsp;Arshdeep later dismissed Mitchell, but Bhuvneshwar continued to struggle, conceding 14 runs in his third over and another 14 in his final over to finish with figures of 0/49.&nbsp;Phillips remained unbeaten and ended the innings with a switch hit over cover. Bevon Jacobs also played an important role, scoring 31 off 16 balls, including a six off the first ball he faced against Arshdeep.&nbsp;New Zealand added 67 runs in the final five overs to move past the 200-run mark and post a challenging total for India.

India recorded an unwanted milestone in T20I cricket against New Zealand, with all five bowlers giving away 40 or more runs for the first time in the team’s history.

For the first time in men’s T20I cricket, five Indian bowlers conceded 40 or more runs in an innings as New Zealand posted 225/4 in the first T20I in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22). Finn Allen scored 45 off 24 balls, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 82 off 40 deliveries to help the hosts dominate India’s bowling attack. Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded 49 runs in four overs, while Arshdeep Singh gave away 45, Mayank Yadav 40, Axar Patel 51 and Nitish Reddy 40. New Zealand’s total was their joint-highest against India in T20Is and their highest score at home against the visitors. With Jasprit Bumrah missing from the squad, India’s bowling attack struggled to control the scoring despite some early swing. New Zealand’s openers handled the movement well before attacking the Indian bowlers, as Tim Seifert scored 24 off 17 balls, while Allen took charge during the powerplay. Bhuvneshwar, playing his first international match in nearly four years, started with a decent first over, however, Seifert hit him for two fours and a six over long-on in his next over. Also Read - Australian pacer Megan Schutt faces two-match ban over medication breach Allen then attacked Arshdeep in the following over, which cost India 17 runs and gave New Zealand an early advantage. The hosts regularly found boundaries on the off-side. Mayank Yadav was introduced during the powerplay and provided India with a breakthrough when Seifert was caught behind off the last ball of the fifth over. Axar Patel conceded two sixes in the final over of the powerplay, with Finn Allen hitting one over long-off before Daryl Mitchell stepped out to clear the long-on boundary. New Zealand finished the powerplay at 65/1 after six overs. Also Read - Will Rohit, Kohli play ODI WC 2027? BCCI prez Manhas says 'depends on selectors' Arshdeep later dismissed Mitchell, but Bhuvneshwar continued to struggle, conceding 14 runs in his third over and another 14 in his final over to finish with figures of 0/49. Phillips remained unbeaten and ended the innings with a switch hit over cover. Bevon Jacobs also played an important role, scoring 31 off 16 balls, including a six off the first ball he faced against Arshdeep. New Zealand added 67 runs in the final five overs to move past the 200-run mark and post a challenging total for India.

India recorded an unwanted milestone in T20I cricket against New Zealand, with all five bowlers giving away 40 or more runs for the first time in the team’s history.

IND vs NZ: New Zealand run riot as Indian bowlers set unwanted T20I record

Former India coach Ravi Shastri shared his thoughts on three seasoned quicks, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah. While Bhuvneshwar's well-earned call-up to the T20I side for the five-match series against New Zealand caught Shastri’s attention, the 1983 World Cup winner backed Shami for an Indian comeback. Shastri also urged Bumrah to manage format workload ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. &nbsp;Bhuvneshwar, 36, returned to the playing XI for the series-decider against the West Indies in the rain-hit 5th T20I for the first time in nearly four years. He will lead the pace attack in New Zealand, with Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Mayank Yadav named among the pacers. &nbsp;Elsewhere, Shami, the hero of the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he picked 23 wickets in seven matches, remains sidelined despite Bumrah’s absence from the white-ball squads. A consistent performer in domestic cricket, Shami has not featured for India since helping the Men in Blue win the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-says-samson-and-vaibhav-cannot-be-in-playing-xi-for-india-on-nz-tour-1792385221695">Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour</a> &nbsp;Speaking on the two Indian pacers, who, under Shastri, peaked across formats, the former coach in a chat with Times of India (TOI) said, “There is no substitute for experience. When you have a bowler of Bhuvneshwar’s quality and experience, it’s a no-brainer. With the form he showed in the IPL and his years with India, he’ll be ideal for New Zealand conditions.” &nbsp;On Shami, Shastri said, “He’s done enough with both red and white balls to be recalled to the Test and ODI sides.”<h2>Bumrah Must Manage Formats</h2>Rested for the 10 white-ball matches, Shastri urged Bumrah and the management to work on his format workload ahead of the showpiece event in Africa next year. Shastri said Bumrah should prioritise Test cricket and feature sporadically in the shorter formats instead. &nbsp;“I don’t think he should play all three formats until the World Cup. He should focus primarily on Test cricket and feature sporadically in ODIs and T20Is. I’d rather preserve him for the two Tests in New Zealand, where he’ll be crucial,” he said. &nbsp;Speaking of the importance of this New Zealand tour, Shastri said, “The entire tour is important. It will give a clear indication of where Indian cricket is heading. Conditions there could also mirror some of what India might face in South Africa during the World Cup.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s tour will get underway with five T20Is starting October 22. The three four-day India ‘A’ matches will begin two days later on October 24, with the ODI and Test squads likely to arrive in New Zealand at the end of this month. The five-match ODI series will start on November 4, while the WTC-bound two Tests will start on November 19.&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri backs Mohammed Shami for an India comeback, praises Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall, and advises Jasprit Bumrah to manage his workload ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri shared his thoughts on three seasoned quicks, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah. While Bhuvneshwar's well-earned call-up to the T20I side for the five-match series against New Zealand caught Shastri’s attention, the 1983 World Cup winner backed Shami for an Indian comeback. Shastri also urged Bumrah to manage format workload ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Bhuvneshwar, 36, returned to the playing XI for the series-decider against the West Indies in the rain-hit 5th T20I for the first time in nearly four years. He will lead the pace attack in New Zealand, with Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Mayank Yadav named among the pacers. Elsewhere, Shami, the hero of the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he picked 23 wickets in seven matches, remains sidelined despite Bumrah’s absence from the white-ball squads. A consistent performer in domestic cricket, Shami has not featured for India since helping the Men in Blue win the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025. Also read| Pujara says 'Samson and Vaibhav cannot be in Playing XI' for India on NZ tour Speaking on the two Indian pacers, who, under Shastri, peaked across formats, the former coach in a chat with Times of India (TOI) said, “There is no substitute for experience. When you have a bowler of Bhuvneshwar’s quality and experience, it’s a no-brainer. With the form he showed in the IPL and his years with India, he’ll be ideal for New Zealand conditions.” On Shami, Shastri said, “He’s done enough with both red and white balls to be recalled to the Test and ODI sides.” Bumrah Must Manage Formats Rested for the 10 white-ball matches, Shastri urged Bumrah and the management to work on his format workload ahead of the showpiece event in Africa next year. Shastri said Bumrah should prioritise Test cricket and feature sporadically in the shorter formats instead. “I don’t think he should play all three formats until the World Cup. He should focus primarily on Test cricket and feature sporadically in ODIs and T20Is. I’d rather preserve him for the two Tests in New Zealand, where he’ll be crucial,” he said. Speaking of the importance of this New Zealand tour, Shastri said, “The entire tour is important. It will give a clear indication of where Indian cricket is heading. Conditions there could also mirror some of what India might face in South Africa during the World Cup.” Meanwhile, India’s tour will get underway with five T20Is starting October 22. The three four-day India ‘A’ matches will begin two days later on October 24, with the ODI and Test squads likely to arrive in New Zealand at the end of this month. The five-match ODI series will start on November 4, while the WTC-bound two Tests will start on November 19.

Ravi Shastri backs Mohammed Shami for an India comeback, praises Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall, and advises Jasprit Bumrah to manage his workload ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup

India ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill flopped on his return to the Ranji Trophy competition for Punjab against Chhattisgarh on Sunday (Oct 18). After missing the first match for his state side due to personal reasons, Gill was picked for the second game, only to last five balls in the first innings on day one at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur. &nbsp;Following a career-best ODI series against the West Indies, where he scored a hundred and a match-winning double century (223*) in back-to-back matches, Gill was bowled on just one, with the left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal picking up the prize wicket.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-a-tour-new-zealand-live-streaming-telecast-coaching-staff-1792245620541">India ‘A’ Tour of New Zealand: Coaching staff announced, live streaming and telecast details inside</a> &nbsp;Batting in his usual Test position, Gill walked in at number four in the 26th over. He got off to the mark with a single off the second delivery he faced, but failed to convert it afterwards. Mandal beat Gill’s defence with a straightener as it went through the gap between the bat and the pad before crashing into the middle stump. Gill’s dismissal left Punjab reeling at 68/3 at that stage, bringing an early end to his first outing for Punjab in Ranji this season.&nbsp;WATCH Gill's Dismissal -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">https://t.co/LXUc7UXSX9&mdash; ' (@stumpsrattled) <a href="https://x.com/stumpsrattled/status/2111698637831209021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h3>One More Innings before Gill flies to NZ</h3>Gill will have another innings to make amends for his first-innings failure before leaving for New Zealand for the full tour starting October 22. Gill will lead the Men in Blue for the first three ODIs before T20I captain Shreyas Iyer takes over for the remaining two One-Dayers.&nbsp; &nbsp;Gill, along with several Test starters, including KL Rahul, will miss the last two ODI matches to prepare for the two Tests that follow.&nbsp; &nbsp;Several reports also suggest that the Indian ODI captain will have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-personal-net-bowlers-new-zealand-tour-1792240523647">four to five personal net bowlers travelling exclusively for him</a>, whose flights, accommodation, and expenses he will cover out of pocket. &nbsp;The 27-year-old, however, will not feature in three four-day ‘A’ games, but plans to arrive in New Zealand earlier than the ODI and Test squads to acclimatise to the challenging conditions. &nbsp;Gill will play his first-ever Test match on New Zealand soil.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill flopped on his Ranji Trophy return for Punjab, bowled for just 1 run by Chhattisgarh's Ajay Mandal. Read match details and his upcoming NZ tour plans.

India ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill flopped on his return to the Ranji Trophy competition for Punjab against Chhattisgarh on Sunday (Oct 18). After missing the first match for his state side due to personal reasons, Gill was picked for the second game, only to last five balls in the first innings on day one at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur. Following a career-best ODI series against the West Indies, where he scored a hundred and a match-winning double century (223*) in back-to-back matches, Gill was bowled on just one, with the left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal picking up the prize wicket. Also read| India ‘A’ Tour of New Zealand: Coaching staff announced, live streaming and telecast details inside Batting in his usual Test position, Gill walked in at number four in the 26th over. He got off to the mark with a single off the second delivery he faced, but failed to convert it afterwards. Mandal beat Gill’s defence with a straightener as it went through the gap between the bat and the pad before crashing into the middle stump. Gill’s dismissal left Punjab reeling at 68/3 at that stage, bringing an early end to his first outing for Punjab in Ranji this season. WATCH Gill's Dismissal -

Shubman Gill flopped on his Ranji Trophy return for Punjab, bowled for just 1 run by Chhattisgarh's Ajay Mandal. Read match details and his upcoming NZ tour plans.

Ranji Trophy: Shubman Gill flops on return, bowled for 1 against Chhattisgarh

Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been recalled to the India squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting October 22. The right-arm swing bowler has returned to the T20I side four years after his last appearance, with current premier quick Jasprit Bumrah rested. Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana are also absent from the 16-man squad picked late on Tuesday (Oct 6). While attacking opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has retained his place, Naman Dhir, who made his India debut during the final ODI against the West Indies, has also been picked. Varun Chakravarthy has also been called up.<h3>India Squad for New Zealand T20Is –</h3>Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav&nbsp;Meanwhile, keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel will lead the India ‘A’ squad for three unofficial multi-day matches in New Zealand. Several Test regulars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant have been included, with uncapped Ravichandran Smaran also earning a deserving call-up.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-maiden-century-india-beat-west-indies-1st-t20i-lucknow-1791306299510">Shreyas Iyer’s maiden T20I hundred powers India to 8-wicket win over West Indies in Lucknow</a>&nbsp;Amongst the quicks, the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee picked Auqib Nabi, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Kumar and Test candidate Akash Deep.<h3>India ‘A’ squad for New Zealand series –</h3>Dhruv Jurel (captain), Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Smaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Choudhary, Yash Rathod, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar<h3>Bhuvneshwar is back after 4 years</h3>Having last played for India in November 2022 against New Zealand in a T20I game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar earned a surprising call-up to the Indian team for the upcoming five-match T20I series. However, his inclusion as the leader of the pack hasn’t been the most shocking call, as the BCCI selectors considered his IPL 2026 performances, wherein he returned with 28 wickets in RCB’s triumphant campaign.&nbsp;At 36, Bhuvneshwar has already featured in 87 T20Is, picking up 90 wickets at an average of 23.10 and an economy of 6.96.Should he get a chance during the New Zealand T20Is, Bhuvneshwar will become the third-oldest specialist bowler to play for India in international cricket after Ashish Nehra (38 years and 186 days) and Shute Banerjee (37 years and 124 days).&nbsp;Mystery spinner Varun has also returned to the T20I squad after missing all action since suffering a side strain in the T20I series opener against Afghanistan in September.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s pace attack also includes newcomers Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav and seasoned quick Arshdeep Singh, with no signs of Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Nitish Kumar Reddy finds a place in the squad in the absence of Pandya, who continues his recovery at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.

Veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar earns a surprise recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series after 4 years, while Dhruv Jurel is named India 'A' captain. Check out the full squads here. 

Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been recalled to the India squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting October 22. The right-arm swing bowler has returned to the T20I side four years after his last appearance, with current premier quick Jasprit Bumrah rested. Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana are also absent from the 16-man squad picked late on Tuesday (Oct 6). While attacking opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has retained his place, Naman Dhir, who made his India debut during the final ODI against the West Indies, has also been picked. Varun Chakravarthy has also been called up. India Squad for New Zealand T20Is – Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav Meanwhile, keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel will lead the India ‘A’ squad for three unofficial multi-day matches in New Zealand. Several Test regulars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant have been included, with uncapped Ravichandran Smaran also earning a deserving call-up. Also read| Shreyas Iyer’s maiden T20I hundred powers India to 8-wicket win over West Indies in Lucknow Amongst the quicks, the Pragyan Ojha-led selection committee picked Auqib Nabi, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Kumar and Test candidate Akash Deep. India ‘A’ squad for New Zealand series – Dhruv Jurel (captain), Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Smaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Choudhary, Yash Rathod, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar Bhuvneshwar is back after 4 years Having last played for India in November 2022 against New Zealand in a T20I game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar earned a surprising call-up to the Indian team for the upcoming five-match T20I series. However, his inclusion as the leader of the pack hasn’t been the most shocking call, as the BCCI selectors considered his IPL 2026 performances, wherein he returned with 28 wickets in RCB’s triumphant campaign. At 36, Bhuvneshwar has already featured in 87 T20Is, picking up 90 wickets at an average of 23.10 and an economy of 6.96. Should he get a chance during the New Zealand T20Is, Bhuvneshwar will become the third-oldest specialist bowler to play for India in international cricket after Ashish Nehra (38 years and 186 days) and Shute Banerjee (37 years and 124 days). Mystery spinner Varun has also returned to the T20I squad after missing all action since suffering a side strain in the T20I series opener against Afghanistan in September. Meanwhile, India’s pace attack also includes newcomers Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav and seasoned quick Arshdeep Singh, with no signs of Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Nitish Kumar Reddy finds a place in the squad in the absence of Pandya, who continues his recovery at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.

Veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar earns a surprise recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series after 4 years, while Dhruv Jurel is named India 'A' captain. Check out the full squads here.&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20Is after 4 years; Dhruv Jurel to lead India 'A'

With question marks being raised about Ajit Agarkar’s future as the head of the men’s selection committee, former Indian spinner and interim chief selector Pragyan Ojha will chair the meeting for the forthcoming New Zealand tour. The selectors postponed the squad announcement meeting on Monday (Oct 5) amid seamer Prasidh Krishna’s pending fitness report, but will likely announce T20I, ODI, Test and ‘A’ squads in the next 48 hours.&nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report claims that with ‘A’ matches, starting on October 24, overlapping with the five T20Is, beginning October 22, the selection conundrum has gripped the Ojha-led committee. Even though the selectors will not dilute the two squads, handing red-ball exposure to the Test regulars remains at the top of their agenda during the squad announcement meeting.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-verdict-joe-root-virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-records-1791206628324">Root 'Can', 'Tough' for Kohli: Dinesh Karthik's verdict on passing Sachin Tendulkar</a>&nbsp;A few India A fast bowlers might stay back to assist the Test team with preparations. Irani Cup hero Mukesh Kumar, who picked up eight wickets in Rest of India's victory over Ranji Trophy champions Jammu &amp; Kashmir, is back on the selectors’ radar, with the committee set to hand him an India-A call-up. His Bengal and India bowling partner, Akash Deep, is also back in the reckoning for a spot in the Test squad, with the selectors deliberating on ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah’s readiness. The management wants him to increase his workload before joining the India squad for two Tests against New Zealand.<h2>Ishan Kishan set for Test call-up</h2>A T20I mainstay and a formidable One-Day batter, Ishan Kishan, could be back in the Test side for the New Zealand series, per the report. The selectors are said to have initiated plans to keep Kishan in line for a Test recall. While they wanted to pick him for the ‘A’ games, the overlap of the white-ball series could force them to look towards Dhruv Jurel and Kumar Kushagra.&nbsp;Rishabh Pant is also expected to complete his preparations for the Test series by featuring in at least one ‘A’ game.&nbsp;Besides Pant, other Test regulars including Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and even KL Rahul are expected to feature in one ‘A’ match. Since KL Rahul is also a key member of the ODI setup, he could feature in only the first ‘A’ match, before linking up with the One-Day squad in Auckland.<h3>Reddy Ahead of Kuldeep</h3>Unlike how India picked several spinners for their concluded Test tour of Sri Lanka, where Manav Suthar earned big praise for his standout performance, he could potentially miss out on the Test squad, alongside Kuldeep Yadav. With more focus on batters and batting all-rounders, Nitish Kumar Reddy could also be back playing Test cricket. Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja would also retain his place in the Test squad.<h3>Fast Bowlers in Mix</h3>Barring Bumrah, who is a sure starter, India would have options to pick from an army of pacers, including Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar and Akash Deep. In case of an injury to any of the pacers, the door could be open for either Auqib Nabi or Mukesh Kumar.

Pragyan Ojha will chair the selection meeting for the New Zealand series as India prepares to announce T20I, ODI, Test, and 'A' squads shortly.

With question marks being raised about Ajit Agarkar’s future as the head of the men’s selection committee, former Indian spinner and interim chief selector Pragyan Ojha will chair the meeting for the forthcoming New Zealand tour. The selectors postponed the squad announcement meeting on Monday (Oct 5) amid seamer Prasidh Krishna’s pending fitness report, but will likely announce T20I, ODI, Test and ‘A’ squads in the next 48 hours. A Times of India (TOI) report claims that with ‘A’ matches, starting on October 24, overlapping with the five T20Is, beginning October 22, the selection conundrum has gripped the Ojha-led committee. Even though the selectors will not dilute the two squads, handing red-ball exposure to the Test regulars remains at the top of their agenda during the squad announcement meeting. Also read| Root 'Can', 'Tough' for Kohli: Dinesh Karthik's verdict on passing Sachin Tendulkar A few India A fast bowlers might stay back to assist the Test team with preparations. Irani Cup hero Mukesh Kumar, who picked up eight wickets in Rest of India's victory over Ranji Trophy champions Jammu & Kashmir, is back on the selectors’ radar, with the committee set to hand him an India-A call-up. His Bengal and India bowling partner, Akash Deep, is also back in the reckoning for a spot in the Test squad, with the selectors deliberating on ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah’s readiness. The management wants him to increase his workload before joining the India squad for two Tests against New Zealand. Ishan Kishan set for Test call-up A T20I mainstay and a formidable One-Day batter, Ishan Kishan, could be back in the Test side for the New Zealand series, per the report. The selectors are said to have initiated plans to keep Kishan in line for a Test recall. While they wanted to pick him for the ‘A’ games, the overlap of the white-ball series could force them to look towards Dhruv Jurel and Kumar Kushagra. Rishabh Pant is also expected to complete his preparations for the Test series by featuring in at least one ‘A’ game. Besides Pant, other Test regulars including Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and even KL Rahul are expected to feature in one ‘A’ match. Since KL Rahul is also a key member of the ODI setup, he could feature in only the first ‘A’ match, before linking up with the One-Day squad in Auckland. Reddy Ahead of Kuldeep Unlike how India picked several spinners for their concluded Test tour of Sri Lanka, where Manav Suthar earned big praise for his standout performance, he could potentially miss out on the Test squad, alongside Kuldeep Yadav. With more focus on batters and batting all-rounders, Nitish Kumar Reddy could also be back playing Test cricket. Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja would also retain his place in the Test squad. Fast Bowlers in Mix Barring Bumrah, who is a sure starter, India would have options to pick from an army of pacers, including Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar and Akash Deep. In case of an injury to any of the pacers, the door could be open for either Auqib Nabi or Mukesh Kumar.

Pragyan Ojha will chair the selection meeting for the New Zealand series as India prepares to announce T20I, ODI, Test, and 'A' squads shortly.

Pragyan Ojha to chair New Zealand series selection meet; squads expected in next 48 hours

Team India has been hit by a double blow as Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana suffered fitness setbacks, making them doubtful for the New Zealand series. The two have been recovering at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Pandya has been away from competitive cricket since the conclusion of IPL 2026, and Harshit last featured during the England white-ball leg in July this year.&nbsp;A Dainik Jagran report claims that although Pandya was inching closer to recovery after completing batting, bowling and fielding workloads, he suffered a fresh setback during the match simulation and complained of pain in his right calf. The report also added that Pandya has been put on Vitamin D medication following an MRI scan and will undergo bisphosphonate therapy.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-jaiswal-or-kishan-jaffer-picks-surprise-left-hander-as-kohli-odi-heir-1791128373005">Not Jaiswal or Ishan Kishan: Wasim Jaffer picks surprise left-hander as Virat Kohli’s ODI successor at No. 3</a>&nbsp;Harshit Rana has suffered low-grade left quadriceps pain during the match simulation. The lanky bowling all-rounder is also said to be down with fever, sore throat and cold, and likely to be eased back into action upon fully recovering.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India will tour New Zealand for five T20Is, five One-Dayers and two Tests, starting October 22 in Christchurch. The white-ball leg concludes on November 15, with the first Test starting in Wellington on November 23. The second Test will get underway in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1.&nbsp;The two-match Test series falls under the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where New Zealand (72.22 PCT) sit in third place and India at fifth (51.52 PCT). For India to qualify for the 2027 WTC Final, they must beat New Zealand 2-0.&nbsp;New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced the T20I squad for the India series, with seasoned all-rounder Mitchell Santner named the captain.<h3>New Zealand T20I Squad:&nbsp;</h3>Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert and Nathan Smith&nbsp;The BCCI has yet to announce the white-ball squad for the away New Zealand tour.

Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana have suffered fresh fitness setbacks at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, leaving both doubtful for India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand.

Team India has been hit by a double blow as Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana suffered fitness setbacks, making them doubtful for the New Zealand series. The two have been recovering at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Pandya has been away from competitive cricket since the conclusion of IPL 2026, and Harshit last featured during the England white-ball leg in July this year. A Dainik Jagran report claims that although Pandya was inching closer to recovery after completing batting, bowling and fielding workloads, he suffered a fresh setback during the match simulation and complained of pain in his right calf. The report also added that Pandya has been put on Vitamin D medication following an MRI scan and will undergo bisphosphonate therapy. Also read| Not Jaiswal or Ishan Kishan: Wasim Jaffer picks surprise left-hander as Virat Kohli’s ODI successor at No. 3 Harshit Rana has suffered low-grade left quadriceps pain during the match simulation. The lanky bowling all-rounder is also said to be down with fever, sore throat and cold, and likely to be eased back into action upon fully recovering. Meanwhile, India will tour New Zealand for five T20Is, five One-Dayers and two Tests, starting October 22 in Christchurch. The white-ball leg concludes on November 15, with the first Test starting in Wellington on November 23. The second Test will get underway in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1. The two-match Test series falls under the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where New Zealand (72.22 PCT) sit in third place and India at fifth (51.52 PCT). For India to qualify for the 2027 WTC Final, they must beat New Zealand 2-0. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced the T20I squad for the India series, with seasoned all-rounder Mitchell Santner named the captain. New Zealand T20I Squad: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert and Nathan Smith The BCCI has yet to announce the white-ball squad for the away New Zealand tour.

Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana have suffered fresh fitness setbacks at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, leaving both doubtful for India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand.

Double blow for India as Hardik Pandya, Harshit Rana suffer fitness setbacks; unlikely for NZ tour: Report

India have dominated New Zealand in the first two matches and now have a chance to wrap up the five-match T20I series. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India will face Mitchell Santner’s New Zealand side in the third T20I at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday (Jan 25). India hold a 2-0 lead after convincing wins in Nagpur and Raipur, while the visitors will be hoping for a strong fightback to stay in the series.<h2>India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I - Live streaming details</h2>As the third T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.<h2>When and where is India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I?</h2>The third T20I between India and New Zealand will take place on Sunday (Jan 25), at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, starting at 7 PM IST.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcb-director-resigns-following-bangladesh-s-controversial-t20-world-cup-2026-snub-1769317590598">BCB director resigns following Bangladesh’s controversial T20 World Cup 26 snub</a><h2>Where to watch India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I live?</h2>The Star Sports Network in India will broadcast the third T20I between India and New Zealand.<h2>Where to livestream India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I?</h2>The fans can watch the live streaming of the third T20I between India and New Zealand on the JioHotstar app and website in India.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/davos-2026-fifa-president-gianni-infantino-praises-football-s-magic-globally-says-it-transforms-people-s-life-del-piero-wenger-1769098245439">Davos 2026: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praises football's magic globally, says 'it transforms people's life'</a><h2>What time will the toss take place?</h2>The toss for the third T20I between India and New Zealand will be held at 6:30 pm IST.<h2>India vs New Zealand T20I squads -</h2>India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (wk) and Ravi Bishnoi &nbsp;New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi and Kristian Clarke (only for the first three games)

As the third T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

India have dominated New Zealand in the first two matches and now have a chance to wrap up the five-match T20I series. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India will face Mitchell Santner’s New Zealand side in the third T20I at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday (Jan 25). India hold a 2-0 lead after convincing wins in Nagpur and Raipur, while the visitors will be hoping for a strong fightback to stay in the series. India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I - Live streaming details As the third T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India. When and where is India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I? The third T20I between India and New Zealand will take place on Sunday (Jan 25), at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, starting at 7 PM IST. Also Read - BCB director resigns following Bangladesh’s controversial T20 World Cup 26 snub Where to watch India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I live? The Star Sports Network in India will broadcast the third T20I between India and New Zealand. Where to livestream India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I? The fans can watch the live streaming of the third T20I between India and New Zealand on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Also Read - Davos 2026: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praises football's magic globally, says 'it transforms people's life' What time will the toss take place? The toss for the third T20I between India and New Zealand will be held at 6:30 pm IST. India vs New Zealand T20I squads - India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (wk) and Ravi Bishnoi New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi and Kristian Clarke (only for the first three games)

As the third T20I between India and New Zealand approaching, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

IND vs NZ, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?

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