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NEW DELHI: The India vs New Zealand caravan now enters the T20I series, where both sides will look at this as a key preparation phase and a testing ground for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

India arrive with a stellar record over the last two years and will be eager to continue the same run against a confident New Zealand side, who made history a few days ago by winning their first ever ODI series on Indian soil.

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Key Players to Watch – India

Abhishek Sharma, the explosive opener in red hot form, will look to start the final frontier before the World Cup on a strong note.

Suryakumar Yadav, going through a tough phase, will be keen to start afresh this year. The Indian skipper knows this series could be crucial in finding his rhythm back before bigger challenges arrive.

Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian pace bowling stalwart, will be eyeing a fresh beginning after his break from international cricket.

Expected Playing XI – India

Sanju Samson (WK), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav

Key Players to Watch – New Zealand

Mitchell Santner, the skipper, will be desperate to make an impact after missing out on the ODI series.

Daryl Mitchell, riding the form of his life, will look to carry that confidence into the T20 series as well. Once again, New Zealand will depend heavily on his consistency in the middle order.

Ish Sodhi, the leg spin powerhouse of the Kiwis, will play a big role on Indian pitches. His ability to pick wickets in the middle overs could decide the flow of the game.

Expected Playing XI – New Zealand

Devon Conway (WK), Tim Robinson, Bevon Jacobs, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (C), Rachin Ravindra, James Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi

Match Details: India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I

--Date: Tomorrow

--Time: 7:00 PM IST

--Venue: Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur

Pitch Report

The Nagpur surface is expected to offer a balanced contest. Batters may enjoy the true bounce early on, while spinners could come into play as the match progresses. A competitive total is likely with some high-intensity action.

Weather Forecast

Clear skies are expected in Nagpur with no threat of rain. Conditions should remain pleasant through the evening, setting the stage for a full and uninterrupted opening clash of the T20I series.