The Indian cricket team has been forced into a late squad reshuffle ahead of the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, with all-rounder Washington Sundar ruled out due to injury. In response, the selectors have named Ravi Bishnoi and Shreyas Iyer as replacements, bolstering both the bowling and batting departments.
Sundar sustained a side strain during recent training sessions and has been advised rest by the BCCI medical team. With the injury occurring close to the start of the five-match series, team management opted not to take any risks, keeping in mind the packed international calendar and upcoming ICC events later this year.
Ravi Bishnoi’s inclusion adds further strength to India’s spin attack. Known for his pace through the air, sharp googlies, and effectiveness in the middle overs, the leg-spinner has been a consistent performer in T20 cricket. His ability to take wickets while maintaining control makes him a valuable option against a New Zealand batting lineup that traditionally plays spin well.
Shreyas Iyer’s return to the T20I squad provides stability and experience to India’s middle order. The right-hander has been in good form across formats and is valued for his ability to handle pressure situations, rotate strike efficiently, and accelerate when required. His presence offers the team flexibility in batting combinations, particularly in high-intensity matches.
The series against New Zealand cricket team is scheduled to begin later this month and will serve as a crucial preparatory assignment for India as they fine-tune combinations ahead of major international tournaments. With selectors continuing to rotate players, the focus remains on building squad depth while maintaining competitive balance.
India’s coaching staff is expected to use the series to assess bench strength, experiment with tactical variations, and provide match exposure to players who could play key roles in the future. The absence of Sundar, who offers both powerplay bowling and lower-order batting depth, will test India’s adaptability, especially on spin-friendly home conditions.
New Zealand, meanwhile, arrive with a reputation for disciplined bowling and aggressive batting, ensuring a closely contested series. The additions of Bishnoi and Iyer are seen as timely moves to counter those strengths and maintain India’s edge at home.
The revised squad is set to assemble shortly, with preparations underway as India look to assert dominance in the shortest format while managing player workload and fitness
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