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India Set the Tone for New Zealand T20Is with Ishan Kishan at No. 3

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Nagpur
  • Jan 20, 2026
  • 584

 India captain Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed that Ishan Kishan will bat at number three in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, reaffirming the team management’s long-term vision for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Addressing the media ahead of the series opener on Wednesday, Suryakumar said the management believes Ishan is the most suitable candidate for the number three role and should be backed with consistent opportunities. Consequently, Shreyas Iyer, who is returning to international cricket after a 25-month absence, will not be considered for selection at this stage.

The first match of the five-match T20I series will be played in Nagpur.

Ishan’s Output at No. 3

Ishan Kishan has featured in four T20 Internationals at number three, amassing 114 runs, including two half-centuries, at an average of 28.50. Since making his T20I debut against England in March 2023, the left-hander has played 32 matches, scoring 796 runs at an average of 25.67, with six half-centuries to his name. His most recent T20I appearance came against Australia in November 2023.

Outstanding Domestic Form

Kishan enters the series in exceptional domestic form. He finished as the leading run-scorer in the 2025–26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, compiling 517 runs in 10 matches for Jharkhand at a remarkable average of 57.44 and a strike rate of 197.32. His campaign featured two centuries and two half-centuries, playing a decisive role in Jharkhand’s championship triumph.

Duffy Reflects on Kohli and Series Challenge

New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy described the opportunity to share a dressing room with Virat Kohli as a special experience. Having previously faced Kohli as an opponent, Duffy said supporting him from inside the team environment would be a memorable moment.

Recalling his rise from the small town of Lumsden to international cricket, Duffy said the challenging conditions he grew up in strengthened his resilience. Looking ahead to the India series, he added that New Zealand would take the field well prepared and free from any added pressure.