India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 promises to be a thrilling encounter as the hosts look to extend their dominance in the five-match series. After a convincing 48-run victory in Nagpur, where India’s batters blazed to 238, the action shifts to Raipur. This match is more than just another T20I—it’s a crucial step in India’s preparations for the upcoming home T20 World Cup in February 2026. New Zealand, stung by the loss despite a solid 190, will be eager to bounce back and level the series.
As a cricket enthusiast running IPL Star, I’ve followed India’s T20 journey closely. Their unbeaten streak of 10 consecutive series or tournaments, including the 2024 T20 World Cup and Asia Cup, showcases their supremacy. But New Zealand has proven they can upset India at home, as seen in their recent Test and ODI series wins. Can the Kiwis narrow the margins and challenge India’s inevitability? This preview dives deep into every aspect, blending stats, tactics, and stories to keep you hooked.
The series opener in Nagpur highlighted India’s batting prowess. Abhishek Sharma’s aggressive start and Rinku Singh’s finishing touches overwhelmed New Zealand’s bowlers. Mitchell Santner, the Kiwi captain, admitted post-match: “There’s no real ‘try and squeeze a couple of dot-ball moments’ with this team [India], you’ve just got to be on from ball one to win it.” It’s a testament to India’s relentless approach. Now, in Raipur, expect another high-stakes battle under lights.
Why does this match matter? For India, it’s about fine-tuning combinations before the World Cup. With a near full-strength side—minus the injured Tilak Varma—Suryakumar Yadav’s men are reinforcing their status as favorites. New Zealand, on the other hand, faces pressure to avoid a 0-2 deficit, which would leave them with three must-win games. Their desperation could lead to surprises, much like their historic Test series win in India after 12 years without a home defeat for the hosts.
Let’s paint the picture: A packed 65,000-capacity stadium in Raipur on a Friday evening, passionate fans cheering every boundary. India’s stars like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are back in action, while New Zealand relies on Glenn Phillips’ form and Santner’s spin. This isn’t just cricket; it’s a narrative of dominance versus resilience. Stick around as we break it down section by section.
Big Picture – India’s T20 Dominance on the Line in Raipur
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 isn’t isolated—it’s part of a broader story. India has evolved into a T20 powerhouse since their 2024 World Cup triumph. Their batting lineup, blending youth and experience, has sustained consistency in a format known for volatility. Think about it: Post-World Cup, they’ve won every bilateral series and multi-nation event, amassing an enviable record.
In Nagpur, India lost the toss but won the game convincingly. Batting first in a night match, they posted 238, thanks to explosive contributions from top to bottom. Abhishek Sharma’s powerplay assault set the tone, while the middle order capitalized. New Zealand’s 190 was competitive, but India’s bowlers, led by Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy, squeezed them out.
New Zealand’s challenge? Bridging the gap. Santner believes they’re close: “Batters will get a pat on the back and bowlers the encouragement to push just a little harder.” But against India’s “generational quality” bowling, it’s tough. Recall New Zealand’s upsets: Their Test series win ended India’s 12-year home streak, and the ODIs marked their first triumph in India. Could T20Is follow?
Raipur adds intrigue. The venue’s limited T20I history—one game in 2023 where India defended 174 against Australia—suggests a balanced pitch. A recent ODI here saw 358 chased down, hinting at high scores. With the World Cup looming, India wants to perfect their “shiny daggers” at the pointy ends.
Fan excitement is palpable. Social media buzzes with predictions, from Abhishek’s six-hitting to Santner’s economy. As IPL Star covers niche cricket news, I see this as a pivotal clash. Will India reinforce their juggernaut status, or will New Zealand spark a comeback?
Series Context After Nagpur Thrashing
The five-match series started with a bang in Nagpur. India, asked to bat, unleashed fury. Abhishek Sharma’s methods—”I don’t feel it [six-hitting] is a high-risk game”—paid off, smashing boundaries at will. Suryakumar Yadav contributed, though Santner halted his momentum.
New Zealand’s response? Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips fought, but 190 fell short by 48 runs. Tactical questions arose: Why didn’t Santner bowl out? He defended it, aiming to deny left-handers spin in the death.
Now, 1-0 up, India moves to Raipur without complacency. Axar Patel’s finger injury is a concern—he left mid-over in Nagpur. If unfit, options like Kuldeep Yadav or Harshit Rana come in, potentially weakening batting depth.
New Zealand might tweak: Matt Henry for experience, or Michael Bracewell if fit. Their desperation is key—three must-wins loom if they lose here.
Why This Match Matters Ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup
Less than a month to the home World Cup, this series is India’s final dress rehearsal. Combinations are settling: Ishan Kishan replaced Tilak Varma seamlessly. Raipur offers another chance to test depth.
For New Zealand, it’s about belief. Facing India’s “sense of inevitability,” they need to stretch moments. A win here keeps the series alive, boosting morale.
Broader context: India’s T20 truths—batting dictates fortunes. Even post-World Cup highs, returns haven’t dipped. New Zealand must disrupt that narrative.
Match Details and Schedule
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 kicks off on January 23, 2026, a Friday, making it perfect for weekend vibes. The game starts at 7:00 PM IST (1:30 PM GMT), with the toss expected at 6:30 PM IST.
Venue: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, Chhattisgarh. This is part of the New Zealand Tour of India 2026 T20I series, match number two of five.
Series schedule for context:
- 1st T20I: January 21, Nagpur (India won by 48 runs)
- 2nd T20I: January 23, Raipur
- 3rd T20I: January 25, Guwahati
- 4th T20I: January 28, Visakhapatnam
- 5th T20I: January 31, Thiruvananthapuram
Umpires and officials will be announced closer to the match, but expect standard ICC protocols.
Where to Watch: Live Streaming and TV Broadcast in India
Don’t miss the action! In India, TV broadcast is on Star Sports Network—channels like Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, and regional languages.
Streaming: JioHotstar (a merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar) offers live coverage. Free for Jio users, or subscribe for HD quality.
Global options: In New Zealand, Sky Sport; USA, Willow TV; UK, Sky Sports Cricket. Apps like ESPN+ or Hotstar for international viewers.
Highlights and replays available on YouTube channels like BCCI.tv.
Ticket Buying Guide for Raipur T20I
Tickets are hot! Online: BookMyShow, Paytm Insider, TicketGenie, or BCCI partners. Prices start at ₹800 for general stands, up to ₹10,000 for premium.
Offline: Counters in Raipur for locals. Expect quick sell-outs—65,000 capacity, partisan crowd anticipated.
Tips: Book early via apps; check for student discounts. Secondary sites like Viagogo, but beware markups.
Weather Forecast for January 23, 2026 in Raipur
Pleasant conditions await. Day highs of 28-30°C, dropping to 14-16°C at night. Clear skies, no rain (0% chance), low humidity, light winds.
Ideal for a full 40-over match—no interruptions expected.
Venue Guide: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
Named after a freedom fighter, this stadium in Naya Raipur is a modern marvel. Capacity: 65,000. Ends: North and South. It hosted IPL games for Delhi Daredevils (2013-2016) and is home to Chhattisgarh cricket.
Facilities: Floodlights, drainage, practice nets. It’s one of India’s largest, with a vibrant atmosphere.
History: Built in 2008, it debuted internationally in 2023. A big partisan crowd expected on Friday.
Historical T20I Stats and Records at Raipur
Limited data, but insightful.
| Stat | Detail |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 1 (India vs Australia, 2023) |
| Wins Batting First | 1 |
| Wins Chasing | 0 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 174 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 154 |
| Highest Total | 174/9 (India) |
| Lowest Defended | 174 (India won by 20 runs) |
IPL history (2013-2016): 6 matches, 4 wins chasing.
Recent ODI: India 358, South Africa chased (Dec 2025)—high-scoring potential.
Pitch Report and Surface Analysis for IND vs NZ 2nd T20I
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I The Raipur pitch offers good bounce early, favoring pacers. It slows as the game progresses, aiding spinners. Dry surface could produce 180-190 par scores.
Analysis: Fresh wicket for this match. Boundaries are large straight, testing power. Recent games suggest batters dominate if set.
Favorable for: Balanced attacks. India’s varied bowlers suit it.
Dew Factor, Toss Prediction, and Tactical Impact
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Dew is crucial in night games—expect heavy second innings, making bowling grip tough.
Toss prediction: Win and bowl first. Impact: High—chasing teams have edge due to dew. Tactics: Front-load spinners if batting first; save pacers for death if chasing.
India Squad and Latest Team News
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I India’s squad is stacked for the World Cup run-in.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Suryakumar Yadav (c) | Batter |
| Axar Patel (vc) | Allrounder |
| Abhishek Sharma | Batting Allrounder |
| Arshdeep Singh | Bowler |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Bowler |
| Shivam Dube | Allrounder |
| Harshit Rana | Bowler |
| Ishan Kishan | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Shreyas Iyer | Top order Batter |
| Kuldeep Yadav | Bowler |
| Hardik Pandya | Allrounder |
| Ravi Bishnoi | Bowler |
| Sanju Samson | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Rinku Singh | Middle order Batter |
| Varun Chakravarthy | Bowler |
News: Axar Patel’s finger injury from Nagpur—bled after a hit from Daryl Mitchell. Short turnaround; if out, Kuldeep or Harshit in. Washington Sundar ruled out (side strain). Shreyas Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi added for first three T20Is. Tilak Varma injured.
New Zealand Squad and Injury Updates
New Zealand’s mix of youth and experience.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Mitchell Santner (c) | Bowling Allrounder |
| Michael Bracewell | Batting Allrounder |
| Mark Chapman | Allrounder |
| Kristian Clarke | Bowler |
| Devon Conway | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Jacob Duffy | Bowler |
| Zak Foulkes | Allrounder |
| Matt Henry | Bowler |
| Bevon Jacobs | Middle order Batter |
| Kyle Jamieson | Bowler |
| Daryl Mitchell | Batting Allrounder |
| James Neesham | Batting Allrounder |
| Glenn Phillips | Allrounder |
| Rachin Ravindra | Batting Allrounder |
| Tim Robinson | Top order Batter |
| Ish Sodhi | Bowler |
Updates: Michael Bracewell recovering from calf strain—could replace Sodhi. No major injuries post-Nagpur.
Probable Playing XI for Both Teams
India (probable): Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel/Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.
Reasoning: If Axar fit, balanced. Else, Rana adds pace.
New Zealand (probable): Tim Robinson, Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Kristian Clarke/Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi/Michael Bracewell, Jacob Duffy.
Reasoning: Henry for extra experience.
Key Selection Dilemmas and Tactical Choices
India: Spinner balance—if Kuldeep in for Axar, batting weakens. Prefer like-for-like.
New Zealand: Bracewell adds depth; Henry for Jamieson if pace needed.
Tactics: India aggressive in powerplay; NZ target early wickets.
India Players to Watch: Explosive Batters and Lethal Bowlers
Abhishek Sharma: The opener’s 81 sixes since the last World Cup top the charts. Recent: 350 runs in 10 T20Is at 179.48 SR. His net practice focuses on powerplay maximization. Vs NZ spinners like Santner and Sodhi, he’s a menace—took 39 off 15 in Nagpur.
Suryakumar Yadav (c): The 360-degree maestro. Back from a lean patch, he scored but fell to Santner. Leadership wise, he’s calm, backing youth. Expect scoops and ramps.
Jasprit Bumrah: Death-over king. In Nagpur, economical despite 29 runs in three overs. His yorkers and variations are generational. Vs Conway and Phillips, key.
Varun Chakravarthy: 55 wickets since last WC—highest. Economy under 8, mystery spin thrives in India.
Hardik Pandya: Allround star. 167 runs in 5 T20Is at 181.52 SR. Bowling adds balance.
Rinku Singh: Finisher supreme. 35.8% of career runs in overs 19-20 (213 runs).
New Zealand Players to Watch: Potential Game-Changers
Mitchell Santner (c): Third-best economy (6.80) among spinners in India (50+ overs). Nagpur: 3-37, got Surya. Tactics under scrutiny, but chops evident.
Glenn Phillips: 500 runs since 2025 at 149.70 SR. Middle-order anchor, powerful hitter.
Jacob Duffy: Swing specialist. Santner praises: “When he swings it up top, it’s nice.” 16 wickets in 9 T20Is recently.
Rachin Ravindra: Versatile. Batting and spin add depth.
Daryl Mitchell: Aggressive, hit Axar hard in Nagpur.
Mark Chapman: Recent 177 runs in 9 T20Is at 168.57 SR.
Key Player Battles That Could Decide the Match
- Abhishek Sharma vs Mitchell Santner/Ish Sodhi: Abhishek’s 39 off 15 in Nagpur. Spinners must contain early.
- Jasprit Bumrah vs Devon Conway: Bumrah’s swing vs Conway’s technique.
- Suryakumar Yadav vs Jacob Duffy: Surya’s innovation vs Duffy’s swing.
- Varun Chakravarthy vs Glenn Phillips: Mystery vs power.
- Hardik Pandya vs Daryl Mitchell: Allrounder duel in middle overs.
- Rinku Singh vs Kyle Jamieson: Finishing vs tall pace.
These battles could swing the game.
IND vs NZ Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
India leads 14-10 in 26 T20Is, with 3 ties.
| Last 5 Matches | Result |
|---|---|
| Jan 21, 2026 | India won by 48 runs |
| Feb 1, 2023 | India won by 168 runs |
| Jan 29, 2023 | India won by 6 wickets |
| Jan 27, 2023 | New Zealand won by 21 runs |
| Nov 22, 2022 | Tie (DLS) |
India dominates recent encounters.
Recent Form Guide: Last Five Matches
India: W W A W L (Abandoned vs SA).
New Zealand: L W NR W W.
| Team | Last 5 |
|---|---|
| India | W (vs NZ), W (vs SA), A (vs SA), W (vs SA), L (vs SA) |
| New Zealand | L (vs India), W (vs WI), NR (vs WI), W (vs WI), W (vs WI) |
India’s momentum strong.
Key Statistical Trends and Trivia
- Abhishek: Most sixes (81) from Full Members post-WC.
- Varun: 55 wickets post-WC.
- Rinku: 213 runs in overs 19-20.
- Samson: 436 at 180.16 SR (2024) vs 22 at 126.85 (2025).
- Phillips: 500 runs at 149.70 SR since 2025.
- Santner: 6.80 economy in India.
Trends: India’s powerplay aggression; NZ’s middle resilience.
Tactical Preview: How India Plan to Dominate
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I India’s template: Aggressive batting, varied bowling. Powerplay: Abhishek and Samson attack. Middle: Surya rotates strike. Death: Rinku, Hardik finish.
Bowling: Bumrah upfront, spinners middle, Arshdeep death. Adapt to dew—bowl spin early if chasing.
New Zealand’s Path to an Upset
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Target early wickets—Duffy swing vs openers. Middle: Phillips, Mitchell build. Santner: Better planning, bowl full quota.
Exploit Axar absence if any. Chase if toss won.
Possible Match Scenarios and Turning Points
Scenario 1: High-scorer (200+)—India chases with dew.
Scenario 2: Low-scorer (160)—Spinners dominate, NZ upsets.
Turning points: Powerplay wickets, death overs.
What if dew is minimal? Batting first wins.
Expert Prediction and Win Probability
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I India favorites: 70-75% chance. Prediction: India wins by 30+ runs or 7+ wickets. Home advantage, form key.
NZ 25-30%: If early breakthroughs.
Final Thoughts: Why India Remain Favorites
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 encapsulates T20 excitement. India’s depth trumps NZ’s grit. As World Cup nears, expect fireworks.
At IPL Star, we love these clashes. Share thoughts in comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026
1. When and where is the India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 scheduled? The India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 is set for January 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST, with the toss at 6:30 PM IST. The match will be played at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, Chhattisgarh – a 65,000-capacity venue hosting its second T20I.
2. What is the pitch report for the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur for the IND vs NZ 2nd T20I? The Raipur pitch typically offers good early bounce, favouring pacers in the powerplay, but slows down later, bringing spinners into play. Recent games, including a high-scoring ODI in December 2025, suggest par scores around 180–190. Boundaries are large straight, and dew in the second innings often makes chasing easier.
3. What are the probable playing XIs for India and New Zealand in the 2nd T20I 2026? India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I India (probable): Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel/Harshit Rana/Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy. New Zealand (probable): Tim Robinson, Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry/Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Michael Bracewell/Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.
4. Where can I watch the IND vs NZ 2nd T20I 2026 live streaming and TV broadcast in India? India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I In India, the match will be telecast live on Star Sports Network (Star Sports 1/HD and regional channels). Live streaming is available on JioHotstar (merged JioCinema + Disney+ Hotstar). International viewers can tune in via Sky Sport (NZ), Willow TV (USA), and Sky Sports Cricket (UK).
5. How can I buy tickets for the India vs New Zealand Raipur T20I 2026? Tickets are available on BookMyShow, Paytm Insider, TicketGenie, and official BCCI partners. India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Prices range from ₹800 to ₹10,000 depending on stands. Offline counters will also be open in Raipur. Demand is expected to be high for the 65,000-capacity stadium, so book early.
6. What is the head-to-head record between India and New Zealand in T20Is ahead of the 2nd T20I 2026? India leads the T20I head-to-head 14–10 across 26 matches (3 ties). India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I India has dominated recent encounters, winning the series opener in Nagpur and most meetings since 2022.
7. Which players should I watch out for in the India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026? India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I India: Abhishek Sharma (most sixes among Full Members post-2024 WC), Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh. New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (excellent economy in India), Glenn Phillips (in rich form), Jacob Duffy (swing threat), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell.
8. What is the weather forecast for the India vs New Zealand Raipur T20I on January 23, 2026? India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Clear skies with no chance of rain. Daytime highs around 28–30°C, evening temperatures dropping to 14–16°C. Low humidity and light winds – perfect conditions for a full match.
9. Why is the IND vs NZ 2nd T20I 2026 important for the 2026 T20 World Cup preparations? With the T20 World Cup starting in February 2026 on home soil, this series is India’s final chance to fine-tune combinations and test depth. India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I For New Zealand, a strong showing builds confidence against top opposition ahead of the global event.
10. Who is favoured to win the India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I 2026 in Raipur? India are clear favourites (70–75% win probability) due to home advantage, current form, batting depth, and bowling variations. India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I New Zealand can cause an upset if they strike early and handle dew effectively.