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The India vs New Zealand caravan now moves to Raipur for the second T20I, with the hosts riding high on confidence. After a commanding 48-run victory in the series opener at Nagpur, the Men in Blue have taken a 1-0 lead in the five-match India vs New Zealand T20I series.
India’s performance in the first game was a statement of intent. Powered by Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 84 and Rinku Singh’s finishing touches, they posted a massive total that proved too much for the visitors. For New Zealand, the second T20I is a chance to regroup and level the series. While they showed sparks of brilliance through Glenn Phillips, they will need a more collective effort to stop the Indian juggernaut at home in the 2nd India vs New Zealand T20I.
Key Players to Watch - India
Abhishek Sharma, fresh off a Player of the Match performance in the 1st India vs New Zealand, will be the centre of attention again. His ability to take on the bowlers from ball one sets the tone for India.
Rinku Singh continues to be the reliable finisher India needs. His cameo in Nagpur proved vital, and the team will look to him to provide the late flourish once more.
Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian skipper, looked in good touch during his brief stay in the first match. He will be eager to convert his start into a big score and lead from the front.
Expected Playing XI - India
Sanju Samson (WK), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
Key Players to Watch - New Zealand
Glenn Phillips was the lone warrior for the Kiwis in the first T20I. His fighting knock of 78 kept them in the hunt, and New Zealand will hope he continues his rich vein of form.
Mitchell Santner, the captain, has a dual role to play. He needs to tighten the screws with his bowling in the middle overs and contribute crucial runs down the order.
Daryl Mitchell is a key cog in the Kiwi middle order. After a quiet outing in Nagpur, he will be desperate to make his presence felt and anchor the innings.
Expected Playing XI - New Zealand
Devon Conway (WK), Tim Robinson, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (C), Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson
Match Details: India vs New Zealand, 2nd T20I
Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM IST
Venue: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur
Pitch Report
The Raipur surface is generally known to be a sporting one. While it offers good bounce for the batters initially, it can slow down as the game progresses, bringing spinners into the game. However, with the match being played in the evening, dew is expected to play a significant role, potentially making chasing the preferred option.
Weather Forecast
Sunny skies are expected in Raipur during the day, transitioning to clear conditions at night. The high temperature will reach 28°C, with a low of 15°C. Humidity is forecasted to be around 32%, and a gentle southeast breeze of 5 mph is expected. There is a 0% chance of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted match.
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Streaming Details
Fans in India can catch all the live action of the 2nd India vs New Zealand on television and digital platforms.
Live Telecast: The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports network
Live Streaming: You can stream the match online for free on the JioHotstar app and website.
