India National Cricket Team vs New Zealand National Cricket Team Match: India will face New Zealand in the second T20I of the five-match series at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Friday, January 23, 2026. After a convincing win in the first T20I, India is expected to retain same playing XI in Raipur. Abhishek Sharma set the tone in the series opener with a blazing 84 off 35 balls, while Sanju Samson added 10 runs off seven deliveries. Ishan Kishan, who returned to the international cricket after two years, is likely to retain his spot despite a low score in the opener.
Suryakumar Yadav will anchor the middle order as captain, supported by Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, who offer power-hitting options. Rinku Singh impressed with an unbeaten 44 in the first match, and all-rounder Axar Patel adds balance with both bat and ball.
India’s bowling attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, with Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy providing pace and spin variety. Bumrah conceded 29 runs in three overs in the series opener, while Varun picked up two wickets.
India Likely XI:
Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy
India will aim to take a 2-0 lead in the series, while New Zealand will look to bounce back after losing the opening T20I. The contest will test the depth and flexibility of both sides ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
