India has bolstered its squad ahead of the second T20I against New Zealand, calling up uncapped wicketkeeper-batter
The medical team is currently overseeing Kishan’s recovery, though his status for the remainder of the tour remains a point of focus. Kushagra, who was already in Christchurch as part of the India A setup for an upcoming unofficial Test series against New Zealand A, will transition to the senior squad at Hagley Oval to provide necessary depth behind the stumps.
Squad adjustments and series context
Kishan’s absence comes at a pivotal moment in the five-match T20I series, which India currently leads 1-0. The opening fixture saw a high-scoring thriller where India successfully chased down New Zealand’s formidable 225/4—the hosts' highest-ever total in a home T20I. The victory was anchored by Sanju Samson’s explosive 67 off 33 balls, supported by Shreyas Iyer’s 42 off 28 and a rapid, unbeaten 42 from just 15 deliveries by Naman Dhir.
For New Zealand, the first match featured standout performances from Glenn Phillips, who remained unbeaten on 82 from 40 balls, and Finn Allen, who contributed 45 off 24. While Kishan is sidelined for the second match, he remains included in the squad for the upcoming five-match ODI series. Over his 67-match T20I career, Kishan has accumulated 1,955 runs at an average of 31.03 and a strike rate of 148.55. The ongoing tour of New Zealand is set to continue with the remaining T20Is, followed by the ODI series and a two-match Test series.
