During a practice match of Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday (Mar 21), 26-year-old spinner Zeeshan Ansari had a tense moment with team captain Ishan Kishan. The incident happened in the eighth over when Kishan and Liam Livingstone were batting in full flow. Kishan scored 20 runs off Ansari in one over, but the spinner later got him out. Even though practice matches are usually calm, Ansari reacted angrily after taking the wicket and signaled Kishan to leave the field and the two exchanged a few words. Kishan, however, did not take it seriously and was seen laughing as he walked back.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is also some speculation on social media about tension in the team, although it appeared to be just a reaction in the heat of the moment.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-set-to-return-to-belfast-after-19-years-as-ireland-t20i-series-schedule-released-1774068077917">India set to return to Belfast after 19 years as Ireland T20I series schedule released</a><h2>Watch the video below</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Send off to Ishan Kishan 🤯 During the intra squad match today, Zeeshan Ansari, a bowler for Sunrisers Hyderabad, was seen giving a send off to his own captain Ishan Kishan after dismissing him. The team atmosphere doesn’t seem to be very good. <a href="https://t.co/3b75QtTh3F">pic.twitter.com/3b75QtTh3F</a>&mdash; Stubbsy  (@spideypant_) <a href="https://twitter.com/spideypant_/status/2035409442519523630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During the previous Indian Premier League season, Ansari claimed six wickets in ten matches and has recently been in top form, taking 21 wickets in his last eight competitive outings. Meanwhile, Kishan is leading the team for the first few games because regular captain Pat Cummins is injured and expected to return in mid-April.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lebron-james-breaks-another-record-in-los-angeles-lakers-win-over-orlando-magic-1774150793454">LeBron James breaks another record in Los Angeles Lakers win over Orlando Magic</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, this happened shortly after Jharkhand assistant coach Sunny Gupta spoke about Kishan’s leadership, praising him as more serious than people think and highlighting his focus on maintaining a positive team environment while maintaining discipline and responsibility.&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

During a practice match of Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday (Mar 21), 26-year-old spinner Zeeshan Ansari had a tense moment with team captain Ishan Kishan. The incident happened in the eighth over when Kishan and Liam Livingstone were batting in full flow. Kishan scored 20 runs off Ansari in one over, but the spinner later got him out. Even though practice matches are usually calm, Ansari reacted angrily after taking the wicket and signaled Kishan to leave the field and the two exchanged a few words. Kishan, however, did not take it seriously and was seen laughing as he walked back. There is also some speculation on social media about tension in the team, although it appeared to be just a reaction in the heat of the moment. Also Read - India set to return to Belfast after 19 years as Ireland T20I series schedule released Watch the video below

Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Watch: Ishan Kishan receives fiery send-off from teammate in SRH practice match

After being out of the team for more than two years, Ishan Kishan made a strong comeback to the India squad following his impressive performances for Jharkhand in the 2025 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter was selected ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in Jan 2026 and also for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Many people were surprised by this choice because Jitesh had been part of India’s title-winning team in the Asia Cup the previous year. However, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav said the decision was on his gut feeling.&nbsp;In an interview with Press Trust of India (PTI), Surya said it was a difficult call because Jitesh had been with the team for about a year and a half and had been playing regularly. He admitted he felt bad about leaving him out.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-treating-pakistan-like-zimbabwe-ahmed-shehzad-tears-into-men-in-green-for-bangladesh-drubbing-odi-series-loss-shaheen-mike-hesson-1773651636067">‘People are treating Pakistan like Zimbabwe’: Shehzad on ODI series loss to BAN</a>&nbsp;“It (Ishan’s selection) was completely on gut and a little bit on data as well because it was very harsh on Jitesh Sharma at that time because he was with the team for the last 1-1.5 years and he was playing as well. It’s not like he was not playing. If he was not playing, the story would have been different. I was very sad when we had to pick Ishan over Jitesh. But then if we had to bring some firepower in the top, if we had to do the openers left-right or if we had to pick the top two wicketkeepers, someone had to miss out," Surya said.&nbsp;Surya also shared that he personally called Ishan and asked him if he could help India win the World Cup and Ishan replied that Surya should trust him and the captain agreed. Surya later said that Ishan’s performances proved that the decision was right.&nbsp;&nbsp;“So, I just called him (Ishan) and asked, “will you win the World Cup?, so he just replied, ‘just trust me.’ I said, "okay, I trust you, and the way he played – it was amazing," he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-general-secretary-iran-still-slated-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-participation-despite-withdrawal-rumors-us-president-donald-trump-iran-israel-war-usa-1773648150617">AFC: Iran still slated for World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours</a>&nbsp;According to Surya, he always believed Ishan could bring something special to the team. After being dropped earlier, Ishan returned home, thought about what went wrong and worked hard in domestic cricket. He played practice matches across India, performed well in domestic tournaments and the IPL and eventually earned his place back in the team. &nbsp;&nbsp;“I mean, the way he started from the bilaterals (five-match T20I series against New Zealand), I always knew that he was bringing an X-factor to the side because he had no baggage. When he went out of the team 1-1.5 years ago, he went back home; I think he must have sat, analysed what had happened to him, and gone on to play domestic cricket. He told me his entire journey, where all he went to play; he played practice matches in every corner of India. And then the way he played domestic cricket, he performed in the IPL; I think he deserved that spot completely," Surya said.

After being picked ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Ishan Kishan delivered strong performances, scoring 317 runs in nine matches.

After being out of the team for more than two years, Ishan Kishan made a strong comeback to the India squad following his impressive performances for Jharkhand in the 2025 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter was selected ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in Jan 2026 and also for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Many people were surprised by this choice because Jitesh had been part of India’s title-winning team in the Asia Cup the previous year. However, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav said the decision was on his gut feeling. In an interview with Press Trust of India (PTI), Surya said it was a difficult call because Jitesh had been with the team for about a year and a half and had been playing regularly. He admitted he felt bad about leaving him out. Also Read - ‘People are treating Pakistan like Zimbabwe’: Shehzad on ODI series loss to BAN “It (Ishan’s selection) was completely on gut and a little bit on data as well because it was very harsh on Jitesh Sharma at that time because he was with the team for the last 1-1.5 years and he was playing as well. It’s not like he was not playing. If he was not playing, the story would have been different. I was very sad when we had to pick Ishan over Jitesh. But then if we had to bring some firepower in the top, if we had to do the openers left-right or if we had to pick the top two wicketkeepers, someone had to miss out," Surya said. Surya also shared that he personally called Ishan and asked him if he could help India win the World Cup and Ishan replied that Surya should trust him and the captain agreed. Surya later said that Ishan’s performances proved that the decision was right. “So, I just called him (Ishan) and asked, “will you win the World Cup?, so he just replied, ‘just trust me.’ I said, "okay, I trust you, and the way he played – it was amazing," he added. Also Read - AFC: Iran still slated for World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours According to Surya, he always believed Ishan could bring something special to the team. After being dropped earlier, Ishan returned home, thought about what went wrong and worked hard in domestic cricket. He played practice matches across India, performed well in domestic tournaments and the IPL and eventually earned his place back in the team. “I mean, the way he started from the bilaterals (five-match T20I series against New Zealand), I always knew that he was bringing an X-factor to the side because he had no baggage. When he went out of the team 1-1.5 years ago, he went back home; I think he must have sat, analysed what had happened to him, and gone on to play domestic cricket. He told me his entire journey, where all he went to play; he played practice matches in every corner of India. And then the way he played domestic cricket, he performed in the IPL; I think he deserved that spot completely," Surya said.

After being picked ahead of Jitesh Sharma for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Ishan Kishan delivered strong performances, scoring 317 runs in nine matches.

'It was completely on gut...': Suryakumar Yadav on selecting Ishan Kishan over Jitesh Sharma

From Sanju Samson to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya

From Sanju Samson to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026

From Sahibzada Farhan to Tim Seifert, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Finn Allen

From Sahibzada Farhan to Tim Seifert, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026. This list also includes Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Finn Allen

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026

India made history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Mar 8) by becoming the first team to retain the T20 World Cup title after defeating New Zealand in the final. India now are also the first side to win a T20 WC title at home and have three trophies to their name as well. The Men in Blue had previously won the T20 World Cup back in 2007 and in 2024.While the team battled it out on the field, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final. &nbsp;The wicketkeeper said he came to know about the tragic news during a practice session and was deeply disturbed.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-prize-money-3-million-for-indian-team-check-runners-up-semifinalists-share-1773004004609">T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Money: $3 million for Indian Team; check runners-up, semifinalists’ share</a>“I lost my cousin sister yesterday in a car accident. I got the news during the practice session. So, I want to dedicate my knock to her. When I looked up after the fifty, it was for her,” Kishan said.Despite the personal loss, Kishan delivered a brilliant performance in the final, scoring 54 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes, as India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs.“She [My cousin] always wanted me to score runs. This one is for her. I dedicate this win to her, and today is Women’s Day, so it makes it all the more special,” he added.Kishan enjoyed an outstanding tournament with the bat. The left-hander finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the competition, amassing 317 runs in nine matches at an impressive strike rate of 193.29, including three half-centuries. The southpaw was called up to India’s squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup following a stellar run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, where he scored 517 runs in 10 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 197.32.During the press conference, Kishan also recalled a conversation with India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav when he received the call-up to the national team.“When Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) bhai called me, I took a screenshot thinking it was about the World Cup. He asked, ‘Will you help us win the World Cup?’ I replied, ‘Will you trust me?’ I told him I would do it, and he said, ‘Alright, done.’”Kishan also spoke about how he has changed his mindset in the last couple of years.The 27-year-old batter revealed that he has now stopped overthinking and now concentrates only on what he can control.“I have stopped thinking too much. I just focus on doing my job and not worry about things beyond my control. That’s something Virat (Kohli) bhai has always followed,” he said.

India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final. 

India made history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Mar 8) by becoming the first team to retain the T20 World Cup title after defeating New Zealand in the final. India now are also the first side to win a T20 WC title at home and have three trophies to their name as well. The Men in Blue had previously won the T20 World Cup back in 2007 and in 2024. While the team battled it out on the field, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final. The wicketkeeper said he came to know about the tragic news during a practice session and was deeply disturbed. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Money: $3 million for Indian Team; check runners-up, semifinalists’ share “I lost my cousin sister yesterday in a car accident. I got the news during the practice session. So, I want to dedicate my knock to her. When I looked up after the fifty, it was for her,” Kishan said. Despite the personal loss, Kishan delivered a brilliant performance in the final, scoring 54 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes, as India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs. “She [My cousin] always wanted me to score runs. This one is for her. I dedicate this win to her, and today is Women’s Day, so it makes it all the more special,” he added. Kishan enjoyed an outstanding tournament with the bat. The left-hander finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the competition, amassing 317 runs in nine matches at an impressive strike rate of 193.29, including three half-centuries. The southpaw was called up to India’s squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup following a stellar run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, where he scored 517 runs in 10 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 197.32. During the press conference, Kishan also recalled a conversation with India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav when he received the call-up to the national team. “When Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) bhai called me, I took a screenshot thinking it was about the World Cup. He asked, ‘Will you help us win the World Cup?’ I replied, ‘Will you trust me?’ I told him I would do it, and he said, ‘Alright, done.’” Kishan also spoke about how he has changed his mindset in the last couple of years. The 27-year-old batter revealed that he has now stopped overthinking and now concentrates only on what he can control. “I have stopped thinking too much. I just focus on doing my job and not worry about things beyond my control. That’s something Virat (Kohli) bhai has always followed,” he said.

India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also fighting an emotional battle of his own. During the post-match press conference, Kishan revealed that he had lost his cousin sister, to whom he was very close, in a car accident a day before the final.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026 | Ishan Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final'

From Sahibzada Farhan to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (league stage). This list also includes Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Aiden Markram

From Sahibzada Farhan to Ishan Kishan, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (league stage). This list also includes Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Aiden Markram.

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in T20 World Cup 2026 (league stage)

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson the dressing being 'disappointed' after a comprehensive loss against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 176, Pakistan were never in the hunt after losing four wickets inside the powerplay and eventually got bowled out for 114, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-india-thrash-pakistan-to-confirm-super-8-spot-ishan-kishan-stars-with-bat-india-vs-pakistan-1771173049221">losing the match by 61 runs</a>. Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to avoid potential net run rate showdown with the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stage.<h2>Pakistan coach shares dressing room update after India loss</h2>"It's a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment because they know how much it means to Pakistan," Hesson said after the loss. "And we are really disappointed we didn't play as well as we could, but we're also part of the tournament and we know in tournament play that it's not always going to go your way. So our job is to pick ourselves up and make sure that we're very good in two or three days."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-west-indies-crush-nepal-s-hopes-to-seal-super-8-spot-1771144357073">T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies crush Nepal's hopes to seal Super 8 spot</a>On picking out a reason where it went wrong for the team, Hesson acknowledged: "We lost wickets early on to shots that I'm sure on that surface they were pretty tough, tough options. On a quicker surface, (like) SSC, might be a little bit different. So it is about adapting and we've been really good the last few months about adapting to different conditions. Today we probably took a little step back."<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ishan-kishan-misses-out-on-ton-gives-india-perfect-start-1771164721274">Ishan sizzles with sensational 77 vs Pak</a></h2>After being put in to bat first, India lost Abhishek Sharma early who scored his second consecutive duck in the tournament. Ishan Kishan, however, took the charge of the Indian innings and scored a sensational 40-ball 77 with 10 fours and three sixes. He added 87 runs for the second wicket with Tilak Varma (25) and put India on course for a good total on a tough pitch. India eventually managed 175/7 in 20 overs with Suryakumar Yadav being the second highest run-scorer for India with 32.

Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to comfortably qualify for the Super 8 stage.

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson the dressing being 'disappointed' after a comprehensive loss against arch-rivals India on Sunday (Feb 15) in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 176, Pakistan were never in the hunt after losing four wickets inside the powerplay and eventually got bowled out for 114, losing the match by 61 runs. Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to avoid potential net run rate showdown with the USA to qualify for the Super 8 stage. Pakistan coach shares dressing room update after India loss "It's a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment because they know how much it means to Pakistan," Hesson said after the loss. "And we are really disappointed we didn't play as well as we could, but we're also part of the tournament and we know in tournament play that it's not always going to go your way. So our job is to pick ourselves up and make sure that we're very good in two or three days." Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026: West Indies crush Nepal's hopes to seal Super 8 spot On picking out a reason where it went wrong for the team, Hesson acknowledged: "We lost wickets early on to shots that I'm sure on that surface they were pretty tough, tough options. On a quicker surface, (like) SSC, might be a little bit different. So it is about adapting and we've been really good the last few months about adapting to different conditions. Today we probably took a little step back." Ishan sizzles with sensational 77 vs Pak After being put in to bat first, India lost Abhishek Sharma early who scored his second consecutive duck in the tournament. Ishan Kishan, however, took the charge of the Indian innings and scored a sensational 40-ball 77 with 10 fours and three sixes. He added 87 runs for the second wicket with Tilak Varma (25) and put India on course for a good total on a tough pitch. India eventually managed 175/7 in 20 overs with Suryakumar Yadav being the second highest run-scorer for India with 32.

Pak coach Hesson was frank in his assessment of the team and questions the shots played by the top order, including skipper Salman Ali Agha, on a surface which was a bit tacky. Pakistan now must win their last group stage match against Namibia to comfortably qualify for the Super 8 stage.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Pretty disappointed dressing room:' Pak coach Hesson questions shot selection by top order after loss vs India

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign was derailed by India on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue registered their routine win over their arch-rivals. Led by Ishan Kishan’s heroics with the bat, India won by 61 runs to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, it is Pakistan who are in a spot of bother as they could miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 spot in case things go against them in the Namibia clash.<h2>Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage of T20 World Cup?</h2>After a defeat to India on Sunday in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup, it is the Men in Blue who have qualified for the Super 8 stage. This means only one more team can join Suryakumar Yadav and Co in the Super 8 stage. As things stand, in Group A, India are already qualified and Namibia are eliminated after their defeat to the USA earlier.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;This leaves three teams – Pakistan, the Netherlands and the USA scrambling for a spot in the Super 8 stage. The USA have already finished their group stage campaign with two wins and two defeats and accumulated four points. Meaning whichever team wins on the final matchday on Wednesday (Feb 18) will go through.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Pakistan face already eliminated Namibia while India face the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What is the equation on Wednesday?</h2>If Pakistan win against Namibia and the Netherlands lose to India, the former will make the Super 8 stage. In this case, Pakistan and the Netherlands both lose; it will be the USA who will qualify for the Super 8 stage. However, if Pakistan lose and the Netherlands beat India, the second spot will be decided by the net run rate (NRR). At this moment, the USA have a better NRR, but the margin of win will affect the NRR for the Netherlands.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of Pakistan to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. 

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign was derailed by India on Sunday (Feb 15) as the Men in Blue registered their routine win over their arch-rivals. Led by Ishan Kishan’s heroics with the bat, India won by 61 runs to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, it is Pakistan who are in a spot of bother as they could miss out on the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 spot in case things go against them in the Namibia clash. Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage of T20 World Cup? After a defeat to India on Sunday in the Group A clash of the T20 World Cup, it is the Men in Blue who have qualified for the Super 8 stage. This means only one more team can join Suryakumar Yadav and Co in the Super 8 stage. As things stand, in Group A, India are already qualified and Namibia are eliminated after their defeat to the USA earlier. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli This leaves three teams – Pakistan, the Netherlands and the USA scrambling for a spot in the Super 8 stage. The USA have already finished their group stage campaign with two wins and two defeats and accumulated four points. Meaning whichever team wins on the final matchday on Wednesday (Feb 18) will go through. On Wednesday, Pakistan face already eliminated Namibia while India face the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What is the equation on Wednesday? If Pakistan win against Namibia and the Netherlands lose to India, the former will make the Super 8 stage. In this case, Pakistan and the Netherlands both lose; it will be the USA who will qualify for the Super 8 stage. However, if Pakistan lose and the Netherlands beat India, the second spot will be decided by the net run rate (NRR). At this moment, the USA have a better NRR, but the margin of win will affect the NRR for the Netherlands.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of Pakistan to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Will Pakistan miss out on Super 8 stage? Here's what we know so far

India extended its dominance in the T20 World Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan as they beat them by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday (Feb 15). A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. The win also saw India officially confirm their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup.<h2>India thrash Pakistan in Colombo</h2>In a one-sided contest, India's bowlers defended 175 runs as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only four Pakistan batters scored in double figures as India were at the top of their game with both bat and ball. Usman Khan (44) was the top scorer for Pakistan, while Shadab Khan (14), Shaheen Afridi (23) and Faheem Ashraf (10) were the only other batters in double figures.&nbsp;Indian bowlers came in handy as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy ended with two wickets each.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in Indian innings?</h2>Batting first, India were off to a poor start as they lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan (77 off 40) steadied the ship as he, along with Tilak Varma (25), stitched 87 runs for the second wicket. Ishan was the aggressor of the duo as he scored 77 runs, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. He laid the foundation for India’s brilliant start before the start as the Men in Blue recovered well.&nbsp;After Ishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav (32) was the moderator of the innings before India lost back-to-back wickets of Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya (0). In the end, Pakistan made a swift recovery as India were restricted to 175/7 in 20 overs.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, Pakistan used spinners for 18 overs, thereby setting a new record in any T20I match.&nbsp;India next take on the Netherlands on Wednesday (Feb 18) at the Narendra Modi Stadium to conclude their group stage campaign. Pakistan, on the other hand face Namibia on the same day.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. 

India extended its dominance in the T20 World Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan as they beat them by 61 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday (Feb 15). A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches. The win also saw India officially confirm their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. India thrash Pakistan in Colombo In a one-sided contest, India's bowlers defended 175 runs as Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. Only four Pakistan batters scored in double figures as India were at the top of their game with both bat and ball. Usman Khan (44) was the top scorer for Pakistan, while Shadab Khan (14), Shaheen Afridi (23) and Faheem Ashraf (10) were the only other batters in double figures. Indian bowlers came in handy as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy ended with two wickets each. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in Indian innings? Batting first, India were off to a poor start as they lost Abhishek Sharma in the first over for a duck. However, Ishan Kishan (77 off 40) steadied the ship as he, along with Tilak Varma (25), stitched 87 runs for the second wicket. Ishan was the aggressor of the duo as he scored 77 runs, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. He laid the foundation for India’s brilliant start before the start as the Men in Blue recovered well. After Ishan’s dismissal, captain Suryakumar Yadav (32) was the moderator of the innings before India lost back-to-back wickets of Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya (0). In the end, Pakistan made a swift recovery as India were restricted to 175/7 in 20 overs. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Interestingly, Pakistan used spinners for 18 overs, thereby setting a new record in any T20I match. India next take on the Netherlands on Wednesday (Feb 18) at the Narendra Modi Stadium to conclude their group stage campaign. Pakistan, on the other hand face Namibia on the same day.

A fixture surrounded by political tensions with a threat of boycott, India was the beneficiary as they got the better of their rivals to maintain their perfect record in the T20 World Cup, stretching their winning streak to 11 matches.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: India thrash Pakistan to confirm Super 8 spot, Ishan Kishan stars with bat

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan, 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ishan Kishan on Sunday (Feb 15) played a brilliant knock of 77 runs from just 40 balls, hitting 10 fours and three big sixes before getting out to Saim Ayub in the ninth over. The 27-year-old left-hander looked very confident from the start. He hit a six and a four off fast bowler Shaheen Afridi in the second over and it made Pakistan captain Salman Agha bring in spinners. But Kishan attacked spinners as well and smashed a four off Agha and then scored several boundaries against Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed, who struggled to stop him. &nbsp;With this innings, Kishan became the fourth Indian player to score a half-century against Pakistan in a T20 World Cup match. He joined Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa on this elite list.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20-world-cup-2026-captains-avoid-handshake-india-make-key-changes-for-high-octane-contest-suryakumar-yadav-1771161126462">India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first. India had a poor start as opener Abhishek Sharma, who was returning after illness, was out for a duck. He was dismissed by captain Salman Agha, who bowled the first over as a surprise move. The decision worked well for Pakistan.&nbsp;At the time of writing, India were 92 for two after 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma were at the crease. So far, Pakistan have tried six different bowlers and surprisingly Shaheen Afridi has bowled only one over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2026-match-30-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1771153953535">AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Check live streaming details, H2H and more</a>&nbsp;With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Ishan Kishan on Sunday (Feb 15) played a brilliant knock of 77 runs from just 40 balls, hitting 10 fours and three big sixes before getting out to Saim Ayub in the ninth over. The 27-year-old left-hander looked very confident from the start. He hit a six and a four off fast bowler Shaheen Afridi in the second over and it made Pakistan captain Salman Agha bring in spinners. But Kishan attacked spinners as well and smashed a four off Agha and then scored several boundaries against Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed, who struggled to stop him. With this innings, Kishan became the fourth Indian player to score a half-century against Pakistan in a T20 World Cup match. He joined Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa on this elite list. Also Read - India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup: Captains avoid handshake, India make key changes for high-octane contest Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first. India had a poor start as opener Abhishek Sharma, who was returning after illness, was out for a duck. He was dismissed by captain Salman Agha, who bowled the first over as a surprise move. The decision worked well for Pakistan. At the time of writing, India were 92 for two after 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma were at the crease. So far, Pakistan have tried six different bowlers and surprisingly Shaheen Afridi has bowled only one over. Also Read - AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Check live streaming details, H2H and more With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

With 10 overs still left and eight wickets in hand, India will look to score big in the final half of the innings. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need quick wickets to stop India from setting a huge total.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan misses out on ton, gives India perfect start

From Yuvraj Singh to Ishan Kishan here is a look at five Indian batters to score fastest fifties in T20 World Cup by balls taken. The honourable list also features the likes of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as Ishan joined the club on Thursday. 

From Yuvraj Singh to Ishan Kishan here is a look at five Indian batters to score fastest fifties in T20 World Cup by balls taken. The honourable list also features the likes of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as Ishan joined the club on Thursday.&nbsp;

From Yuvraj Singh to Ishan Kishan, 5 Indian batters to score fastest fifties in T20 World Cup (by balls taken)

India scored 209/9 vs Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026 on Thursday (Feb 12) and won the match by 93 runs, but Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan want flatter wickets. Both Pandya and Kishan scored blistering fifties but acknowledged after the match that it wasn't easy to bat on the pitch. Kishan scored 24-ball 61, hitting 6 fours and 5 sixes as opener, while Pandya smashed 28-ball 52, hitting four sixes and as many fours as well. The win ws also India's 10th straight in T20 World Cups, having not lost since 2024 edition of the tournament, which they went on to win.<h2>Hardik and Kishan ask for flatter wickets</h2>"Two back-to-back pitches haven't been batting-friendly," Player of the Match Pandya said after the win. "Wicket was holding a bit today. You just adapt and let your skill-set work. We'd like a little more flatter wickets."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-make-of-that-what-you-want-namibia-skipper-slams-no-night-training-session-before-india-match-1770873142244">T20 WC 2026 | Namibia skipper slams no night training session before India match</a>Kishan echoed the same views and said: "In both the wickets, I feel it was a bit different from what we expected to happen. And today, looking at the death overs, when we were not able to regularly hit big sixes, I think we need to also give credit to Namibia bowlers because they were bang on with their yorkers, they were bang on with their slower ones."<h2>India skipper SKY on Abhishek's availability for Pakistan match</h2>Abhishek, playing his first T20 World Cup, is pivotal to India's title defence. His ability to score lightning runs in the powerplay gives the team an edge and a platform to build a good score. The left-hand opener did play against the USA but got out on a golden duck. He missed the Namibia match because of stomach bug for which he was hospitalised as well before being discharged on Wednesday (Feb 11). "I think he (Abhishek) will play the next match," Varun said after India beat Namibia. "I don't know. As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today. He said he is on the way." Skipper Suryakumar Yadav also spoke about the opener's fitness and said: "He will take a game or two, I don't know."

Both Pandya and Kishan scored blistering fifties but acknowledged after the match that it wasn't easy to bat on the pitch. Kishan scored 24-ball 61, hitting 6 fours and 5 sixes as opener, while Pandya smashed 28-ball 52, hitting four sixes and as many fours as well.

India scored 209/9 vs Namibia in T20 World Cup 2026 on Thursday (Feb 12) and won the match by 93 runs, but Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan want flatter wickets. Both Pandya and Kishan scored blistering fifties but acknowledged after the match that it wasn't easy to bat on the pitch. Kishan scored 24-ball 61, hitting 6 fours and 5 sixes as opener, while Pandya smashed 28-ball 52, hitting four sixes and as many fours as well. The win ws also India's 10th straight in T20 World Cups, having not lost since 2024 edition of the tournament, which they went on to win. Hardik and Kishan ask for flatter wickets "Two back-to-back pitches haven't been batting-friendly," Player of the Match Pandya said after the win. "Wicket was holding a bit today. You just adapt and let your skill-set work. We'd like a little more flatter wickets." Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | Namibia skipper slams no night training session before India match Kishan echoed the same views and said: "In both the wickets, I feel it was a bit different from what we expected to happen. And today, looking at the death overs, when we were not able to regularly hit big sixes, I think we need to also give credit to Namibia bowlers because they were bang on with their yorkers, they were bang on with their slower ones." India skipper SKY on Abhishek's availability for Pakistan match Abhishek, playing his first T20 World Cup, is pivotal to India's title defence. His ability to score lightning runs in the powerplay gives the team an edge and a platform to build a good score. The left-hand opener did play against the USA but got out on a golden duck. He missed the Namibia match because of stomach bug for which he was hospitalised as well before being discharged on Wednesday (Feb 11). "I think he (Abhishek) will play the next match," Varun said after India beat Namibia. "I don't know. As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today. He said he is on the way." Skipper Suryakumar Yadav also spoke about the opener's fitness and said: "He will take a game or two, I don't know."

Both Pandya and Kishan scored blistering fifties but acknowledged after the match that it wasn't easy to bat on the pitch. Kishan scored 24-ball 61, hitting 6 fours and 5 sixes as opener, while Pandya smashed 28-ball 52, hitting four sixes and as many fours as well.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Not batting-friendly:' India players Kishan and Pandya ask for flatter wickets

From England to Namibia here are five times when India registered their highest powerplay totals in T20Is. The list sees Namibia addition after Indian batters Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson gave a defining start to the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. 

From England to Namibia here are five times when India registered their highest powerplay totals in T20Is. The list sees Namibia addition after Indian batters Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson gave a defining start to the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.&nbsp;

From England to Namibia, India’s 5 highest powerplay scores in T20Is

India could face a major setback in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 after star batter Ishan Kishan was seen limping off in the net sessions at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 11). Ishan, who has been in red-hot form for India in the build-up to the T20 World Cup, was seen holding his left toe before resuming batting. The batter later returned to bat, but he received medical attention on the field with the Namibia game just 24 hours away, while India play Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo.<h2>Ishan Kishan injured?</h2>After the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, the Indian team was seen taking practice sessions at the Arun Jaitley Stadium as Ishan was struck by a ball on his toe. The deadly yorker was delivered by Jasprit Bumrah as Ishan was quickly rushed to medical aid. He was later seen limping before he came back to bat. The medical staff treated the southpaw on the field with heart in the mouth for the Indian cricket team fans.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Ishan has been in superb form for India recently, having scored runs in plenty, including a hundred against New Zealand. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team, which will start on Saturday in Mumbai. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. On the other hand, Samson has been in poor form and is likely to play second fiddle in the side, with Ishan also being the wicketkeeper option.&nbsp;In the opening match of the T20 World Cup on Saturday, the wicketkeeper-batter scored 20 off 16 before he was dismissed.&nbsp;The India vs Namibia T20 World Cup match will start at 7:00 p.m. IST on Thursday, with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m.

Ishan Kishan, who has been in red-hot form for India in the build-up to the T20 World Cup, was seen holding his left toe before resuming batting. 

India could face a major setback in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 after star batter Ishan Kishan was seen limping off in the net sessions at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 11). Ishan, who has been in red-hot form for India in the build-up to the T20 World Cup, was seen holding his left toe before resuming batting. The batter later returned to bat, but he received medical attention on the field with the Namibia game just 24 hours away, while India play Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo. Ishan Kishan injured? After the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, the Indian team was seen taking practice sessions at the Arun Jaitley Stadium as Ishan was struck by a ball on his toe. The deadly yorker was delivered by Jasprit Bumrah as Ishan was quickly rushed to medical aid. He was later seen limping before he came back to bat. The medical staff treated the southpaw on the field with heart in the mouth for the Indian cricket team fans. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Ishan has been in superb form for India recently, having scored runs in plenty, including a hundred against New Zealand. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team, which will start on Saturday in Mumbai. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. On the other hand, Samson has been in poor form and is likely to play second fiddle in the side, with Ishan also being the wicketkeeper option. In the opening match of the T20 World Cup on Saturday, the wicketkeeper-batter scored 20 off 16 before he was dismissed. The India vs Namibia T20 World Cup match will start at 7:00 p.m. IST on Thursday, with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m.

Ishan Kishan, who has been in red-hot form for India in the build-up to the T20 World Cup, was seen holding his left toe before resuming batting.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan spotted limping in nets ahead of crucial Namibia, Pakistan matches

Team India is all set to open its T20 World Cup campaign on Saturday (Feb 7) as they take on the USA at the hill storic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, with the eyes of the cricketing fraternity on the Men in Blue. India, defending champions, will be one of the favourites to win the title and will start their campaign against the USA, who reached the Super 8 stage in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Speaking on the eve of the contest, India captain Suryakumar Yadav opened up on the opener’s position with Sanju Samson struggling and Ishan Kishan in fine form.<h2>Ishan to open for India?</h2>“Definitely, look at the way he has played in the last few games. We noticed it after getting up from our seats because it was international cricket. But if you look at it closely, he was playing the same way in domestic cricket as well. Even in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he was batting the same way and continued with that approach. He played at No. 3 in the T20I series.&nbsp;“In the warm-up match, he opened. I hope he continues playing that way, whichever position he bats at. I don’t think he will bat below No. 3. But whatever opportunity he gets, I hope he bats the same way,” said Suryakumar in the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Ishan has been in superb form for India recently, having scored runs in plenty, including a hundred against New Zealand. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team as the T20 World Cup will start on Saturday in Mumbai. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. On the other hand, Samson has been in poor form and is likely to play second fiddle in the side, with Ishan also being the wicketkeeper option.&nbsp;The match between India vs USA T20 World Cup match will start at 7:00 p.m. IST on Saturday, with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m.

Ishan has been in superb form for India recently, having scored runs in plenty, including a hundred against New Zealand. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team as the T20 World Cup will start on Saturday in Mumbai.

Team India is all set to open its T20 World Cup campaign on Saturday (Feb 7) as they take on the USA at the hill storic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, with the eyes of the cricketing fraternity on the Men in Blue. India, defending champions, will be one of the favourites to win the title and will start their campaign against the USA, who reached the Super 8 stage in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Speaking on the eve of the contest, India captain Suryakumar Yadav opened up on the opener’s position with Sanju Samson struggling and Ishan Kishan in fine form. Ishan to open for India? “Definitely, look at the way he has played in the last few games. We noticed it after getting up from our seats because it was international cricket. But if you look at it closely, he was playing the same way in domestic cricket as well. Even in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he was batting the same way and continued with that approach. He played at No. 3 in the T20I series. “In the warm-up match, he opened. I hope he continues playing that way, whichever position he bats at. I don’t think he will bat below No. 3. But whatever opportunity he gets, I hope he bats the same way,” said Suryakumar in the pre-match press conference. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Ishan has been in superb form for India recently, having scored runs in plenty, including a hundred against New Zealand. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team as the T20 World Cup will start on Saturday in Mumbai. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. On the other hand, Samson has been in poor form and is likely to play second fiddle in the side, with Ishan also being the wicketkeeper option. The match between India vs USA T20 World Cup match will start at 7:00 p.m. IST on Saturday, with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m.

Ishan has been in superb form for India recently, having scored runs in plenty, including a hundred against New Zealand. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team as the T20 World Cup will start on Saturday in Mumbai.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan to open for India? Suryakumar Yadav all but confirms ahead of USA opener

Ishan Kishan, after his 20-ball 53 in the T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match against South Africa on Wednesday (Feb 4), is the front-runner to open the batting ahead of Sanju Samson come main tournament. The left-hand batter made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) tournament and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 World Cup 2024, in spot. Samson's poor form including scoring just 40-odd runs in the recent five-T20I home series against New Zeland has also not helped his case. Kishan, after scoring 214 runs in three games vs NZ, has now shared his feeling about 'wanting to open', giving India a dilemma to settle about backing first choice player or in-form batter before they take on USA on Feb 7 in their T20 WC campaign opener in Mumbai.<h2>Kishan shares thoughts on opening batting in T20 WC warm up match vs SA</h2>Kishan's 20-ball 53 before being retired out was the highlight of his opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma, who himself scored 18-ball 24 before retiring hurt. The duo added 80 runs for the first wicket in just 5.3 overs, with Kishan hitting 22 &nbsp;of 29 runs in the 5th over bowled by Anrich Nortje which included three sixes and a four as well. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top and hence giving Samson a go ahead.Speaking after the match, Kishan said: "I was really excited for Wednesday (Feb 4). I wanted to open the innings. Batting at number three, I enjoyed that situation, but with the World Cup coming up, no matter what position I bat in, my focus is always on doing my best for the team. I think it’s about staying in the present, watching the ball and playing the shots that are required at that point in time. I’m not putting too much thought or effort into it. I’m just reacting, watching the ball, and playing accordingly, and that seems to be working well for me."India squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku SinghIndia match schedule for T20 World Cup 2026: IND vs USA (Feb 7 in Mumbai), IND vs NAMIBIA (Feb 12 in Delhi), IND vs PAK (Feb 15 in Colombo), IND vs NETHERLANDS (Feb 18 in Ahmedabad)

Kishan made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong SMAT and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 WC 2024, in spot. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top.

Ishan Kishan, after his 20-ball 53 in the T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match against South Africa on Wednesday (Feb 4), is the front-runner to open the batting ahead of Sanju Samson come main tournament. The left-hand batter made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) tournament and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 World Cup 2024, in spot. Samson's poor form including scoring just 40-odd runs in the recent five-T20I home series against New Zeland has also not helped his case. Kishan, after scoring 214 runs in three games vs NZ, has now shared his feeling about 'wanting to open', giving India a dilemma to settle about backing first choice player or in-form batter before they take on USA on Feb 7 in their T20 WC campaign opener in Mumbai. Kishan shares thoughts on opening batting in T20 WC warm up match vs SA Kishan's 20-ball 53 before being retired out was the highlight of his opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma, who himself scored 18-ball 24 before retiring hurt. The duo added 80 runs for the first wicket in just 5.3 overs, with Kishan hitting 22 of 29 runs in the 5th over bowled by Anrich Nortje which included three sixes and a four as well. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top and hence giving Samson a go ahead. Speaking after the match, Kishan said: "I was really excited for Wednesday (Feb 4). I wanted to open the innings. Batting at number three, I enjoyed that situation, but with the World Cup coming up, no matter what position I bat in, my focus is always on doing my best for the team. I think it’s about staying in the present, watching the ball and playing the shots that are required at that point in time. I’m not putting too much thought or effort into it. I’m just reacting, watching the ball, and playing accordingly, and that seems to be working well for me." India squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh India match schedule for T20 World Cup 2026: IND vs USA (Feb 7 in Mumbai), IND vs NAMIBIA (Feb 12 in Delhi), IND vs PAK (Feb 15 in Colombo), IND vs NETHERLANDS (Feb 18 in Ahmedabad)

Kishan made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong SMAT and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 WC 2024, in spot. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Enjoyed number 3 but...,' Kishan's blistering from puts Samson in spot ahead of India's title defence

Ishan Kishan has all but potentially sealed his place at the top following his glitz and blitz against South Africa in India’s only warm-up fixture in the T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 4). Kishan opened with Abhishek Sharma, with his team captain Suryakumar Yadav also hinting at sticking with the same combination heading into the showpiece event, possibly closing doors for under-fire Sanju Samson. However, his quick-fire start helped others to build on the momentum and post a massive score of 240 for six, eventually seeing India stand tall with 30 runs in the end.&nbsp;India batted first and punished the South African bowlers inside the powerplay. The two left-handed openers took the attack to the opposition with disdain, scoring 80 runs inside the first six overs. Kishan completed his fifty by then, with the help of seven sixes. Abhishek Sharma also retired on 24*.&nbsp;See Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-5-highest-run-scorers-for-india-in-warm-up-game-vs-south-africa-t20-world-cup-ishan-kishan-hardik-pandya-1770224733060">Meet 5 highest run-scorers for India in warm-up game vs SA</a> &nbsp;The middle order exploded big time, with Tilak Varma (45 off 19 balls), captain Suryakumar Yadav (30 from 16 deliveries) and Axar Patel (35* in 22 balls), all contributing. Returning Tilak Varma had the best strike rate of them all (236.84). However, Rinku Singh and Hardik Pandya’s late splurge of runs saw India post a mammoth 240 in the first innings. &nbsp;While Rinku scored 16 in 13 balls, Pandya smashed three sixes and two fours in his 10-ball 30.<h3>No Bumrah, no worries!</h3>India rested its ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah for all the right reasons, and even without him, the bowling attack did fairly well to keep the Proteas’ run chase under check, eventually beating them by 30 runs. &nbsp;For South Africa, captain Aiden Markram’s form was a boost at the top, with Rya Rickelton's 21-ball 44 also coming in handy for the last time’s runners-up. In Quinton de Kock’s absence, the South African top order did enough, but it was the lower middle order that saved them from embarrassment.&nbsp; &nbsp;Jason Smith (35), Tristan Stubbs (45*) and Marco Jansen (31) were among runs, but the target was too much as they surrendered by 30 runs. &nbsp;

Kishan slammed seven maximums during his brief stay out in the middle against South Africa in India's lone warm-up fixture. 

Ishan Kishan has all but potentially sealed his place at the top following his glitz and blitz against South Africa in India’s only warm-up fixture in the T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 4). Kishan opened with Abhishek Sharma, with his team captain Suryakumar Yadav also hinting at sticking with the same combination heading into the showpiece event, possibly closing doors for under-fire Sanju Samson. However, his quick-fire start helped others to build on the momentum and post a massive score of 240 for six, eventually seeing India stand tall with 30 runs in the end. India batted first and punished the South African bowlers inside the powerplay. The two left-handed openers took the attack to the opposition with disdain, scoring 80 runs inside the first six overs. Kishan completed his fifty by then, with the help of seven sixes. Abhishek Sharma also retired on 24*. See Pics | Meet 5 highest run-scorers for India in warm-up game vs SA The middle order exploded big time, with Tilak Varma (45 off 19 balls), captain Suryakumar Yadav (30 from 16 deliveries) and Axar Patel (35* in 22 balls), all contributing. Returning Tilak Varma had the best strike rate of them all (236.84). However, Rinku Singh and Hardik Pandya’s late splurge of runs saw India post a mammoth 240 in the first innings. While Rinku scored 16 in 13 balls, Pandya smashed three sixes and two fours in his 10-ball 30. No Bumrah, no worries! India rested its ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah for all the right reasons, and even without him, the bowling attack did fairly well to keep the Proteas’ run chase under check, eventually beating them by 30 runs. For South Africa, captain Aiden Markram’s form was a boost at the top, with Rya Rickelton's 21-ball 44 also coming in handy for the last time’s runners-up. In Quinton de Kock’s absence, the South African top order did enough, but it was the lower middle order that saved them from embarrassment. Jason Smith (35), Tristan Stubbs (45*) and Marco Jansen (31) were among runs, but the target was too much as they surrendered by 30 runs.

Kishan slammed seven maximums during his brief stay out in the middle against South Africa in India's lone warm-up fixture.&nbsp;

Kishan over Samson? Ishan’s 20-ball blitz settles opening slot talk as India crush SA in warm-up

India played its only 2026 T20 World Cup warm-up tie against South Africa on Wednesday (Feb 4) in Navi Mumbai, with several batters toying with the cricket ball for fun. Let’s check out the five highest run-getters for India against the Proteas.

India played its only 2026 T20 World Cup warm-up tie against South Africa on Wednesday (Feb 4) in Navi Mumbai, with several batters toying with the cricket ball for fun. Let’s check out the five highest run-getters for India against the Proteas.

Meet 5 highest run-scorers for India in warm-up game vs SA

Meet the five teams with the highest T20I totals against a Full Member ICC nation, which now includes India after their 271/5 against the Kiwis. The list also features Afghanistan and England, while the likes of New Zealand, Ireland, Bangladesh and South Africa are on the receiving end.

Meet the five teams with the highest T20I totals against a Full Member ICC nation, which now includes India after their 271/5 against the Kiwis. The list also features Afghanistan and England, while the likes of New Zealand, Ireland, Bangladesh and South Africa are on the receiving end.

Meet 5 teams with highest T20I totals against a Full Member ICC nation

From Suryakumar Yadav to Shimron Hetmyer, here's a look at the top five batters with most T20I runs in Jan 2026. This list also includes Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma and Brandon King

From Suryakumar Yadav to Shimron Hetmyer, here's a look at the top five batters with most T20I runs in Jan 2026. This list also includes Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma and Brandon King

Meet top 5 batters with most T20I runs in Jan 2026

Ishan Kishan was the headline act for India on Saturday (Jan 31) as the hosts beat New Zealand by 46 runs at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The win also saw India pocket the five-match T20I series 4-1, therefore building momentum ahead of next weekend’s T20 World Cup opener against the USA. Alongside Ishan, Arshdeep Singh scalped a five-for, ending with figures of 51/5 in his spell.<h2>New Zealand left flat</h2>New Zealand were off to a mixed start, losing their opener, Tim Seifert, for five runs as they scored 17 runs. However, Finn Allen played a counter-attacking knock as he raced away to a 22-ball half-century, the fastest against India by a BlackCaps batter in T20Is. New Zealand made 79/1 in six overs. India also conceded their highest powerplay total in T20Is after 78/0 against West Indies in 2016. After the end of eight overs, New Zealand smashed 105/1.&nbsp;During the last ball of the ninth over, Axar Patel removed dangerous Finn Allen for 80 off 38 deliveries, with eight fours and six towering sixes. After the end of 10 overs, the visitors reached 131/2. Axar got his second wicket as he removed Glenn Phillips for just seven runs during the second ball of the 11th over. In the following over, Arshdeep removed Rachin Ravindra for 30 off 11 deliveries, with four boundaries. During the third ball of the over, Arshdeep removed captain Mitchell Santner for a two-ball duck as the visitors slumped to 138/5.&nbsp;During the 14th over, Bevon Jacobs and Daryl Mitchell combined to slam 22 runs against ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah as New Zealand reached 166/5. In the very next over, spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Bevon Jacobs for seven runs. During the 16th over, Arshdeep struck twice - removing Kyle Jamieson (9) and Daryl Mitchell (26 off 12 balls, with two fours and two sixes) to complete his first five-wicket haul in T20I cricket.Towards the end, New Zealand were bundled out for 225 runs in 19.4 overs, and they lost the high-scoring contest by 46 runs.<h2>What happened in Indian innings?</h2>Earlier, Ishan scored his maiden T20I hundred in just 42 balls as he claimed a place in the Playing XI during the T20 World Cup. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. This time, he went a step ahead and scored the ton to help India score a big total.On the other hand, skipper Suryakumar was also in brilliant form, having scored his third fifty in the series. His innings consisted of 4 fours and 6 sixes. Hardik Pandya (42 off 17) and Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16) were also amongst the runs for India. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, failed to make the most of his opportunities and was dismissed for 6 in the third over. As a result, India ended with 271/5 in their 20 overs.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;For New Zealand, three bowlers went for more than 50 runs during their spell, with Lockie Ferguson being the best bowler with two wickets, while there were wickets apiece for Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, and Mitchell Santner.

The win also saw India pocket the five-match T20I series 4-1, therefore building momentum ahead of next weekend’s T20 World Cup opener against the USA. 

Ishan Kishan was the headline act for India on Saturday (Jan 31) as the hosts beat New Zealand by 46 runs at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The win also saw India pocket the five-match T20I series 4-1, therefore building momentum ahead of next weekend’s T20 World Cup opener against the USA. Alongside Ishan, Arshdeep Singh scalped a five-for, ending with figures of 51/5 in his spell. New Zealand left flat New Zealand were off to a mixed start, losing their opener, Tim Seifert, for five runs as they scored 17 runs. However, Finn Allen played a counter-attacking knock as he raced away to a 22-ball half-century, the fastest against India by a BlackCaps batter in T20Is. New Zealand made 79/1 in six overs. India also conceded their highest powerplay total in T20Is after 78/0 against West Indies in 2016. After the end of eight overs, New Zealand smashed 105/1. During the last ball of the ninth over, Axar Patel removed dangerous Finn Allen for 80 off 38 deliveries, with eight fours and six towering sixes. After the end of 10 overs, the visitors reached 131/2. Axar got his second wicket as he removed Glenn Phillips for just seven runs during the second ball of the 11th over. In the following over, Arshdeep removed Rachin Ravindra for 30 off 11 deliveries, with four boundaries. During the third ball of the over, Arshdeep removed captain Mitchell Santner for a two-ball duck as the visitors slumped to 138/5. During the 14th over, Bevon Jacobs and Daryl Mitchell combined to slam 22 runs against ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah as New Zealand reached 166/5. In the very next over, spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Bevon Jacobs for seven runs. During the 16th over, Arshdeep struck twice - removing Kyle Jamieson (9) and Daryl Mitchell (26 off 12 balls, with two fours and two sixes) to complete his first five-wicket haul in T20I cricket. Towards the end, New Zealand were bundled out for 225 runs in 19.4 overs, and they lost the high-scoring contest by 46 runs. What happened in Indian innings? Earlier, Ishan scored his maiden T20I hundred in just 42 balls as he claimed a place in the Playing XI during the T20 World Cup. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. This time, he went a step ahead and scored the ton to help India score a big total. On the other hand, skipper Suryakumar was also in brilliant form, having scored his third fifty in the series. His innings consisted of 4 fours and 6 sixes. Hardik Pandya (42 off 17) and Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16) were also amongst the runs for India. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, failed to make the most of his opportunities and was dismissed for 6 in the third over. As a result, India ended with 271/5 in their 20 overs. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds For New Zealand, three bowlers went for more than 50 runs during their spell, with Lockie Ferguson being the best bowler with two wickets, while there were wickets apiece for Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, and Mitchell Santner.

The win also saw India pocket the five-match T20I series 4-1, therefore building momentum ahead of next weekend’s T20 World Cup opener against the USA.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ: Ishan Kishan ton headlines Indian dominance in Trivandrum, pocket series 4-1

Ishan Kishan scored a statement ton in the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Saturday (Jan 31) with a week to go for the start of the T20 World Cup. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team, which will start its T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on Feb 7. The southpaw’s 103-run saw India score 271/5 in their 20 overs, with captain Suryakumar Yadav also scoring 63 off 30.<h2>Ishan claims T20 World Cup place</h2>Having come into the Indian side after a superb Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), Ishan was given the opportunity to be part of the T20 World Cup squad and the batter has not looked back. On Saturday, Ishan scored his maiden T20I hundred in just 42 balls as he claimed a place in the Playing XI during the T20 World Cup. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200.&nbsp;Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. This time, he went a step ahead and scored the ton to help India score a big total.&nbsp;On the other hand, skipper Suryakumar was also in brilliant form, having scored his third fifty in the series. His innings consisted of 4 fours and 6 sixes. Hardik Pandya (42 off 17) and Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16) were also amongst the runs for India. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, failed to make the most of his opportunities and was dismissed for 6 in the third over.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;On the other hand, skipper Suryakumar was also in brilliant form, having scored his third fifty in the series. His innings consisted of 4 fours and 6 sixes. Hardik Pandya (42 off 17) and Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16) were also amongst the runs for India. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, failed to make the most of his opportunities and was dismissed for 6 in the third over.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;For New Zealand, three bowlers went for more than 50 runs during their spell, with Lockie Ferguson being the best bowler with two wickets, while there were wickets apiece for Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, and Mitchell Santner.

Ishan Kishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team, which will start its T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on Feb 7. 

Ishan Kishan scored a statement ton in the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Saturday (Jan 31) with a week to go for the start of the T20 World Cup. Ishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team, which will start its T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on Feb 7. The southpaw’s 103-run saw India score 271/5 in their 20 overs, with captain Suryakumar Yadav also scoring 63 off 30. Ishan claims T20 World Cup place Having come into the Indian side after a superb Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), Ishan was given the opportunity to be part of the T20 World Cup squad and the batter has not looked back. On Saturday, Ishan scored his maiden T20I hundred in just 42 balls as he claimed a place in the Playing XI during the T20 World Cup. His superb innings consisted of 6 fours and 10 sixes while scoring runs in tandem. In fact, Ishan scored 84 runs in boundaries while striking at more than 200. Ishan’s ton came after he had already scored 76 in Raipur, showcasing his intentions with the bat. This time, he went a step ahead and scored the ton to help India score a big total. On the other hand, skipper Suryakumar was also in brilliant form, having scored his third fifty in the series. His innings consisted of 4 fours and 6 sixes. Hardik Pandya (42 off 17) and Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16) were also amongst the runs for India. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, failed to make the most of his opportunities and was dismissed for 6 in the third over. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli On the other hand, skipper Suryakumar was also in brilliant form, having scored his third fifty in the series. His innings consisted of 4 fours and 6 sixes. Hardik Pandya (42 off 17) and Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16) were also amongst the runs for India. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, failed to make the most of his opportunities and was dismissed for 6 in the third over. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds For New Zealand, three bowlers went for more than 50 runs during their spell, with Lockie Ferguson being the best bowler with two wickets, while there were wickets apiece for Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, and Mitchell Santner.

Ishan Kishan’s ton in 42-balls has set the pace for the Indian team, which will start its T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on Feb 7.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ: Ishan Kishan scores statement ton ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup

Abhishek Sharma was hot on his heels on Sunday (Jan 25) as India beat New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20I of the five-match series. Playing at the Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, it was Abhishek’s 12-ball fifty that sealed the deal for the hosts as they won the series 3-0 with T20 World Cup less than two weeks away. India also had captain Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah to thank as they contributed to the winning cause.<h2>Abhishek reigns supreme</h2>Tasked to chase 154 runs to win, India made the worst possible start as they lost Sanju Samson (0) on the first ball of the innings. However, that did not make a huge difference for India as Ishan Kishan (28 off 13) and Abhishek scored runs left, right and centre. &nbsp;The pair stitched a stand of 53 runs for the second wicket before captain Suryakumar Yadav joined the party.&nbsp;Abhishek, with his exploit, scored the second-fastest T20I fifty for India as he brought that tally in just 14 balls. He narrowly missed out on breaking Yuvraj Singh’s record for fastest T20I fifty for India, with the former batter doing so in 12 balls against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>Quickest 50 against a FM team (by balls)</h2>12 balls Yuvraj Singh vs Eng Durban 200713 balls Jan Frylinck vs Zim Bulawayo 202514 balls Colin Munro vs SL Auckland 201614 balls Abhishek Sharma vs NZ Guwahati 2026 *15 Quinton de Kock vs WI Centurion 2023&nbsp;In the end, an unbeaten 68 off 20 for Abhishek and 57 off 26 for captain Suryakumar Yadav saw India win the match with 10 overs to spare. They also pocketed the series 3-0 with two matches still to go in the series.<h2>What happened in New Zealand innings?</h2>On the first ball of the sixth over, Bumrah’s perfectly delivered ball got the better of Seifert as he was dismissed for 12 off 11. It was New Zealand’s third wicket, having already lost Devon Conway (1) in the first over, while Rachin Ravindra (4) was swept by Hardik Pandya in the next over. Interestingly, Conway was dismissed for the fifth time by Harshit Rana, gaining the upper hand on the batter. However, it was Burmah’s delivery against Seifert that made the headlines.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;After Seifert’s dismissal, New Zealand were34/3 in 5.1 overs, Glenn Phillips (48 off 40) and Mark Chapman (32 off 23) stabilising the innings. Chapman was dismissed by Ravi Bishnoi as he produced the breakthrough for the Men in Blue. New Zealand would soon go from 86/3 to 112/6, losing key wickets in the middle overs.&nbsp;Ultimately, the Kiwis were restricted to 153/9 in their 20 overs, with captain Mitchell Santner playing a key knock of 27 runs.&nbsp;For India, Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 17/3 in four overs, while Hardik Pandya and Ravi Bishnoi bagged two wickets each.

Playing at the Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, it was Abhishek Sharma’s 12-ball fifty that sealed the deal for the hosts as they won the series 3-0 with T20 World Cup less than two weeks away. 

Abhishek Sharma was hot on his heels on Sunday (Jan 25) as India beat New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20I of the five-match series. Playing at the Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, it was Abhishek’s 12-ball fifty that sealed the deal for the hosts as they won the series 3-0 with T20 World Cup less than two weeks away. India also had captain Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah to thank as they contributed to the winning cause. Abhishek reigns supreme Tasked to chase 154 runs to win, India made the worst possible start as they lost Sanju Samson (0) on the first ball of the innings. However, that did not make a huge difference for India as Ishan Kishan (28 off 13) and Abhishek scored runs left, right and centre. The pair stitched a stand of 53 runs for the second wicket before captain Suryakumar Yadav joined the party. Abhishek, with his exploit, scored the second-fastest T20I fifty for India as he brought that tally in just 14 balls. He narrowly missed out on breaking Yuvraj Singh’s record for fastest T20I fifty for India, with the former batter doing so in 12 balls against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Quickest 50 against a FM team (by balls) 12 balls Yuvraj Singh vs Eng Durban 2007 13 balls Jan Frylinck vs Zim Bulawayo 2025 14 balls Colin Munro vs SL Auckland 2016 14 balls Abhishek Sharma vs NZ Guwahati 2026 * 15 Quinton de Kock vs WI Centurion 2023 In the end, an unbeaten 68 off 20 for Abhishek and 57 off 26 for captain Suryakumar Yadav saw India win the match with 10 overs to spare. They also pocketed the series 3-0 with two matches still to go in the series. What happened in New Zealand innings? On the first ball of the sixth over, Bumrah’s perfectly delivered ball got the better of Seifert as he was dismissed for 12 off 11. It was New Zealand’s third wicket, having already lost Devon Conway (1) in the first over, while Rachin Ravindra (4) was swept by Hardik Pandya in the next over. Interestingly, Conway was dismissed for the fifth time by Harshit Rana, gaining the upper hand on the batter. However, it was Burmah’s delivery against Seifert that made the headlines. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli After Seifert’s dismissal, New Zealand were34/3 in 5.1 overs, Glenn Phillips (48 off 40) and Mark Chapman (32 off 23) stabilising the innings. Chapman was dismissed by Ravi Bishnoi as he produced the breakthrough for the Men in Blue. New Zealand would soon go from 86/3 to 112/6, losing key wickets in the middle overs. Ultimately, the Kiwis were restricted to 153/9 in their 20 overs, with captain Mitchell Santner playing a key knock of 27 runs. For India, Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 17/3 in four overs, while Hardik Pandya and Ravi Bishnoi bagged two wickets each.

Playing at the Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, it was Abhishek Sharma’s 12-ball fifty that sealed the deal for the hosts as they won the series 3-0 with T20 World Cup less than two weeks away.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ: Abhishek's blitzkrieg sweeps New Zealand in Guwahati, India pocket T20I series 3-0

Ishan Kishan played one of the best innings of his T20I career, scoring 76 runs off just 32 balls to help India win the match by seven wickets against New Zealand in the second T20I at Raipur on Friday (Jan 23). The left-hander hit 11 fours and four sixes and also formed a strong 122-run partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav in only 48 balls, putting India firmly in control of the chase. Before this partnership, India were in trouble at 6 for 2 while chasing 209.&nbsp;Suryakumar, who top-scored for India with 82 off 37 balls, later said he was frustrated early on because he was not getting enough strike during the powerplay. He added that he had been batting well in practice, which gave him confidence going into the match.&nbsp;“I was angry he wasn’t giving me strike in the powerplay but I was able to get a hold of the conditions. I’ve been batting well in the nets, had a good break, and had a good practice session before the game too,” he said at the post-match presentation.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2026-why-matches-were-suspended-here-s-what-we-know-1769228788837">Australian Open 2026: Why matches were suspended - Here’s what we know</a>&nbsp;Suryakumar also praised Kishan’s fearless approach, saying he had rarely seen such batting in a pressure situation. He was amazed by how Kishan turned the innings after India lost two early wickets.&nbsp;“I don’t know what Ishan had in the afternoon for lunch, but I have never seen someone batting that way at 6 for 2 and ending the powerplay on 60-odd 75. But that’s what we want for our batters to be able to express themselves,” Surya said.&nbsp;The Indian captain also applauded the bowlers for their strong performance. Despite good batting conditions, they kept New Zealand to 208 runs.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-india-shatters-pakistan-s-record-with-fastest-200-plus-t20i-chase-1769225494295">IND vs NZ: India shatters Pakistan’s record with fastest 200-plus T20I chase</a>&nbsp;“Incredible effort with the ball. When they were 110 for 2, I thought it would be a 230-odd total but all the bowlers chipped in and took responsibility. I am really enjoying what’s happening right now. The mood is happy in the camp and I want to keep them in that space,” he added.

Ishan Kishan struck 11 fours and four sixes and also formed a strong 122-run partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav in only 48 balls, putting India firmly in control of the chase. 

Ishan Kishan played one of the best innings of his T20I career, scoring 76 runs off just 32 balls to help India win the match by seven wickets against New Zealand in the second T20I at Raipur on Friday (Jan 23). The left-hander hit 11 fours and four sixes and also formed a strong 122-run partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav in only 48 balls, putting India firmly in control of the chase. Before this partnership, India were in trouble at 6 for 2 while chasing 209. Suryakumar, who top-scored for India with 82 off 37 balls, later said he was frustrated early on because he was not getting enough strike during the powerplay. He added that he had been batting well in practice, which gave him confidence going into the match. “I was angry he wasn’t giving me strike in the powerplay but I was able to get a hold of the conditions. I’ve been batting well in the nets, had a good break, and had a good practice session before the game too,” he said at the post-match presentation. Also Read - Australian Open 2026: Why matches were suspended - Here’s what we know Suryakumar also praised Kishan’s fearless approach, saying he had rarely seen such batting in a pressure situation. He was amazed by how Kishan turned the innings after India lost two early wickets. “I don’t know what Ishan had in the afternoon for lunch, but I have never seen someone batting that way at 6 for 2 and ending the powerplay on 60-odd 75. But that’s what we want for our batters to be able to express themselves,” Surya said. The Indian captain also applauded the bowlers for their strong performance. Despite good batting conditions, they kept New Zealand to 208 runs. Also Read - IND vs NZ: India shatters Pakistan’s record with fastest 200-plus T20I chase “Incredible effort with the ball. When they were 110 for 2, I thought it would be a 230-odd total but all the bowlers chipped in and took responsibility. I am really enjoying what’s happening right now. The mood is happy in the camp and I want to keep them in that space,” he added.

Ishan Kishan struck 11 fours and four sixes and also formed a strong 122-run partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav in only 48 balls, putting India firmly in control of the chase.&nbsp;

‘I was angry, he wasn’t…’:  Suryakumar Yadav reacts to Ishan Kishan's knock after 2nd T20I win

India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav made a blistering return to form in the second T20I against New Zealand in Raipur as he smashed an unbeaten 82 to help his side to a record win. Playing on Friday (Jan 23), Surya was given a huge helping hand by Ishan Kishan as he too returned to the Indian side with a statement 76 off 32 as the Men in Blue beat the Kiwis by seven wickets. Interestingly, India chased down the 209-run target with 28 balls to spare and now take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.<h2>Batters run riot</h2>Tasked to chase 209 runs to win, India made a poor start as the hosts were 6/2 in the second over, losing Abhishek Sharma (0) and Sanju Samson (6) early. However, Ishan and captain Surya helped India come back into the contest. The two led the foundation for India’s resurgence, with Ishan being the aggressor as he completed his fifty in 20 deliveries. His innings of 76 runs consisted of 11 fours and 4 sixes as he, along with Surya, stitched a stand of 122 runs in 48 balls.&nbsp;Ishan was later dismissed for 76, but the damage was already done with the Men in Blue closing in on a win. Shivam Dube (unbeaten 36 off 18) scored the winning runs later as India won with 28 balls to spare to take a 2-0 lead in the series.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>What happened in New Zealand innings?</h2>After being asked to bat first, New Zealand were off to a fantastic start as they raced away to 43/0 in three overs. However, speedster Harshit Rana dismissed opener Devon Conway for 19 runs off nine balls, including three fours and one six, to break the partnership during the first ball of the fourth over.&nbsp;In the very next over, spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Tim Seifert after fielder Ishan Kishan took a brilliant catch at the mid-wicket region. The right-handed batter made 24 off 13 deliveries, including five fours.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;In the 13th over, Kuldeep Yadav struck as he removed dangerous Rachin Ravindra with Arshdeep taking a simple catch at the short third region. Ravindra played a blistering knock of 44 off 26 deliveries, including two fours and four towering sixes. The visitors would score 208/6 in their 20 overs as they crossed the 200-run mark.&nbsp;For India, Hardik Pandya (1/25), Harshit Rana (1/35), Varun Chakaravarthy (1/35), Shivam Dube (1/7) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/35) were among the wicket takers.&nbsp;

Playing on Friday (Jan 23) in Raipur, Suryakumar Yadav was given a huge helping hand by Ishan Kishan as he too returned to the Indian side with a statement 76 off 32 as the Men in Blue beat the Kiwis by seven wickets.

India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav made a blistering return to form in the second T20I against New Zealand in Raipur as he smashed an unbeaten 82 to help his side to a record win. Playing on Friday (Jan 23), Surya was given a huge helping hand by Ishan Kishan as he too returned to the Indian side with a statement 76 off 32 as the Men in Blue beat the Kiwis by seven wickets. Interestingly, India chased down the 209-run target with 28 balls to spare and now take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Batters run riot Tasked to chase 209 runs to win, India made a poor start as the hosts were 6/2 in the second over, losing Abhishek Sharma (0) and Sanju Samson (6) early. However, Ishan and captain Surya helped India come back into the contest. The two led the foundation for India’s resurgence, with Ishan being the aggressor as he completed his fifty in 20 deliveries. His innings of 76 runs consisted of 11 fours and 4 sixes as he, along with Surya, stitched a stand of 122 runs in 48 balls. Ishan was later dismissed for 76, but the damage was already done with the Men in Blue closing in on a win. Shivam Dube (unbeaten 36 off 18) scored the winning runs later as India won with 28 balls to spare to take a 2-0 lead in the series. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What happened in New Zealand innings? After being asked to bat first, New Zealand were off to a fantastic start as they raced away to 43/0 in three overs. However, speedster Harshit Rana dismissed opener Devon Conway for 19 runs off nine balls, including three fours and one six, to break the partnership during the first ball of the fourth over. In the very next over, spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Tim Seifert after fielder Ishan Kishan took a brilliant catch at the mid-wicket region. The right-handed batter made 24 off 13 deliveries, including five fours. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds In the 13th over, Kuldeep Yadav struck as he removed dangerous Rachin Ravindra with Arshdeep taking a simple catch at the short third region. Ravindra played a blistering knock of 44 off 26 deliveries, including two fours and four towering sixes. The visitors would score 208/6 in their 20 overs as they crossed the 200-run mark. For India, Hardik Pandya (1/25), Harshit Rana (1/35), Varun Chakaravarthy (1/35), Shivam Dube (1/7) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/35) were among the wicket takers.

Playing on Friday (Jan 23) in Raipur, Suryakumar Yadav was given a huge helping hand by Ishan Kishan as he too returned to the Indian side with a statement 76 off 32 as the Men in Blue beat the Kiwis by seven wickets.

IND vs NZ: Ishan, Surya dazzle with bat as India chase record total in Raipur, take 2-0 lead in series

Ishan Kishan was at the peak of his powers on Friday (Jan 23) as he scored a quickfire 76 to justify his selection in the India side. Playing at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, Ishan smashed his fifty in 20 balls, fastest for an Indian against New Zealand in T20Is, as he made a statement return to the Indian side. He was later dismissed for 76 off 32 and put India in pole position to win the second T20I in the five-match series.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Putting on a show and HOW 🍿 Ishan Kishan with his 7⃣th FIFTY in T20Is 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 75/2 after 6 overs. Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8G8p1tq1RC">https://t.co/8G8p1tq1RC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ishankishan51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ishankishan51</a> <a href="https://t.co/LffNygvhdn">pic.twitter.com/LffNygvhdn</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/2014731800384577936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Ishan runs riot with bat</h2>Having been dismissed for 8 in the first T20I, Ishan had a point to prove to justify his selection and he did so with the bat. Having come out to bat when India was 6/1, the scoreline became more vulnerable as the hosts lost first Sanju Samson (6) and then Abhishek Sharma(0). Soon, the scoreboard read 6/2 with Ishan and captain Suryakumar Yadav (unbeaten 82) in the middle.&nbsp;The two led the foundation for India’s resurgence, with Ishan being the aggressor as he completed his fifty in 20 deliveries. His innings of 76 runs consisted of 11 fours and 4 sixes as he, along with Surya, stitched a stand of 122 runs in 48 balls.&nbsp;Ishan was later dismissed for 76, but the damage was already done with the Men in Blue closing in on a win. Shivam Dube (unbeaten 36 off 18) scored the winning runs later as India won with 28 balls to spare to take a 2-0 lead in the series.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>What happened in New Zealand innings?</h2>After being asked to bat first, New Zealand were off to a fantastic start as they raced away to 43/0 in three overs. However, speedster Harshit Rana dismissed opener Devon Conway for 19 runs off nine balls, including three fours and one six, to break the partnership during the first ball of the fourth over.&nbsp;In the very next over, spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Tim Seifert after fielder Ishan Kishan took a brilliant catch at the mid-wicket region. The right-handed batter made 24 off 13 deliveries, including five fours.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;In the 13th over, Kuldeep Yadav struck as he removed dangerous Rachin Ravindra with Arshdeep taking a simple catch at the short third region. Ravindra played a blistering knock of 44 off 26 deliveries, including two fours and four towering sixes. The visitors would score 208/6 in their 20 overs as they crossed the 200-run mark.&nbsp;For India, Hardik Pandya (1/25), Harshit Rana (1/35), Varun Chakaravarthy (1/35), Shivam Dube (1/7) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/35) were among the wicket takers.

Ishan Kishan was dismissed for 76, but the damage was already done with the Men in Blue closing in on a win. Shivam Dube (unbeaten 36 off 18) scored the winning runs later as India won with 28 balls to spare to take a 2-0 lead in the series.

Ishan Kishan was at the peak of his powers on Friday (Jan 23) as he scored a quickfire 76 to justify his selection in the India side. Playing at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, Ishan smashed his fifty in 20 balls, fastest for an Indian against New Zealand in T20Is, as he made a statement return to the Indian side. He was later dismissed for 76 off 32 and put India in pole position to win the second T20I in the five-match series.

Ishan Kishan was dismissed for 76, but the damage was already done with the Men in Blue closing in on a win. Shivam Dube (unbeaten 36 off 18) scored the winning runs later as India won with 28 balls to spare to take a 2-0 lead in the series.

IND vs NZ: Ishan Kishan makes statement with bat, smashes 76 to justify selection

Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India's T20I team with a four on the first ball he faced. Kishan came to bat in the second over after Sanju Samson was dismissed on a rather soft dismissal. Kishan got a slot ball first up by Kyle Jamieson and samshed it down the ground for a four during the first T20 vs New Zealand on Wednesday (Jan 21) at the VCA stadium in Nagpur. The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.<h2>Kishan has skipper Suryakumar's backing</h2>Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-updated-points-table-and-qualifcation-scenarios-rcb-through-but-what-about-others-1768982858996">WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others</a>Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: “Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play.”<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-made-at-toss-surykumar-joins-exclusive-list-of-indian-players-with-100-or-more-t20i-matches-1769007652499">SKY joins exclusive list of Indian players</a></h2>As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand, he joined an exlusive list of Indian players. This was SKY's 100th T20I match for India - making him only the fourth player to acheive the milestone. Rohit leads the list with 159 appearance for India in T20Is, followed by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya with 125 matches each. Virat and Rohit, however, announced their retirement from the format after India's T20 World Cup title win in 2024 edition. Suryakumar was made India's captain as Rohit's replacement and will now lead India in 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champion. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starts Feb 7 with India taking on the USA.

The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.

Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India's T20I team with a four on the first ball he faced. Kishan came to bat in the second over after Sanju Samson was dismissed on a rather soft dismissal. Kishan got a slot ball first up by Kyle Jamieson and samshed it down the ground for a four during the first T20 vs New Zealand on Wednesday (Jan 21) at the VCA stadium in Nagpur. The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023. Kishan has skipper Suryakumar's backing Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. Also Read - WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: “Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play.” SKY joins exclusive list of Indian players As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand, he joined an exlusive list of Indian players. This was SKY's 100th T20I match for India - making him only the fourth player to acheive the milestone. Rohit leads the list with 159 appearance for India in T20Is, followed by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya with 125 matches each. Virat and Rohit, however, announced their retirement from the format after India's T20 World Cup title win in 2024 edition. Suryakumar was made India's captain as Rohit's replacement and will now lead India in 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champion. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starts Feb 7 with India taking on the USA.

The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: 'Starts with 4, out four balls later': Kishan fails in first international match for India since November 2023

India and New Zealand will square off in the first of the five T20Is starting on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. Since conceding the home ODI series to the Kiwis for the first time, the hosts are more motivated than ever to compensate for that loss. Although both teams have their best players back for this marquee series, Team India could have some headaches surrounding team selection. Check out what Team India’s XI for the opener could look like.<h3>No Shreyas Iyer for opener?</h3>Returning to the T20I side, although as an injury replacement for Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer might have to wait a tad extra for his chance, as T20I captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-t20i-deserves-to-play-skipper-suryakumar-confirms-ishan-kishan-at-number-3-1768912763603">Suryakumar Yadav confirmed in-form Ishan Kishan at number three for the first game</a>. Coming off a brilliant white-ball domestic run, the left-handed batter was a surprise inclusion to the side for the New Zealand T20Is and the World Cup, offering his captain and the selectors more options to pick from. &nbsp;"Ishan will play third [No. 3]. Because [he's] in our World Cup team, we have picked him first. So, it's his responsibility, and he has to play. He has been doing well in domestic cricket. He hasn't played for the Indian team for 1-1.5 years. We have picked him in the World Cup team, and he deserves to play,” India’s T20I captain SKY said of Kishan’s batting position.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🗣️🗣️ Ishan Kishan will play at no.3 Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> on the inclusion of <a href="https://twitter.com/ishankishan51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ishankishan51</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>&#39;s Playing XI in the 1⃣st T20I against New Zealand. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/sZ3AB7RKVH">pic.twitter.com/sZ3AB7RKVH</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/2013611255177847020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kishan's rich vein of form would benefit India, besides providing them with a back-up gloveman option (to Sanju Samson). The flashy batter hit the right notes during the recently concluded SMAT for Jharkhand, smashing 517 runs in 10 matches, including two hundreds and as many fifties; he even whacked a match-winning hundred in the finale, helping his team lift the trophy for the first time. Ishan's last appearance for India, however, came more than two years ago (Nov 2023) during the home T20I series against Australia. &nbsp;Barring Kishan’s inclusion, India’s XI could look similar to what they fielded against South Africa late last year, with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson opening the innings and captain SKY walking out at number four. The hosts could have two all-rounders in Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya batting at five and six, respectively, while also recalling T20 specialist Rinku Singh at number seven.&nbsp; &nbsp;Vice-captain Axar Patel makes a perfect number eight for India, with the defending world champions contemplating picking between Kuldeep Yadav and in-form Varun Chakarvarthy as the specialist spinner. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh would likely be the two pacers for the series opener.<h3>Team India’s predicted XI for 1st T20I against NZ –</h3>Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel/Kuldeep Yadav, Varun CV, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh

Both India and New Zealand would have selection headaches heading into the series opener in Nagpur.

India and New Zealand will square off in the first of the five T20Is starting on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. Since conceding the home ODI series to the Kiwis for the first time, the hosts are more motivated than ever to compensate for that loss. Although both teams have their best players back for this marquee series, Team India could have some headaches surrounding team selection. Check out what Team India’s XI for the opener could look like. No Shreyas Iyer for opener? Returning to the T20I side, although as an injury replacement for Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer might have to wait a tad extra for his chance, as T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed in-form Ishan Kishan at number three for the first game. Coming off a brilliant white-ball domestic run, the left-handed batter was a surprise inclusion to the side for the New Zealand T20Is and the World Cup, offering his captain and the selectors more options to pick from. "Ishan will play third [No. 3]. Because [he's] in our World Cup team, we have picked him first. So, it's his responsibility, and he has to play. He has been doing well in domestic cricket. He hasn't played for the Indian team for 1-1.5 years. We have picked him in the World Cup team, and he deserves to play,” India’s T20I captain SKY said of Kishan’s batting position.

Both India and New Zealand would have selection headaches heading into the series opener in Nagpur.

IND vs NZ 1st T20I: No Iyer? Kishan at 3. Check India’s predicted playing XI

From Ishan Kishan to Shubman Gill here is a look at five highest maiden hundred in ODIs for India. This list also features the likes of legendary names likes Kapil Dev, MS Dhoni and Dinesh Mongia. 

From Ishan Kishan to Shubman Gill here is a look at five highest maiden hundred in ODIs for India. This list also features the likes of legendary names likes Kapil Dev, MS Dhoni and Dinesh Mongia.&nbsp;

From Ishan Kishan to Shubman Gill, 5 highest maiden hundred in ODIs for India

Sakibul Gani (32 balls), Ishan Kishan (33 balls), Anmolpreet Singh (35 ball), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (36 balls), and Yusuf Pathan (40 balls) are the fastest hundred hitters in the history of Vijay Hazare Trophy - India's domestic 50-over tournament.

Sakibul Gani (32 balls), Ishan Kishan (33 balls), Anmolpreet Singh (35 ball), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (36 balls), and Yusuf Pathan (40 balls) are the fastest hundred hitters in the history of Vijay Hazare Trophy - India's domestic 50-over tournament.

Vijay Hazare Trophy: From Pathan to Kishan - Meet players to hit fastest hundreds

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