Ishan Kishan from India demonstrated his ability to tell jokes which he used to respond to an old viral video that showed Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill making fun of Kishans experience when he achieved historic athletic success yet remained unnoticed by others. The moment of his first T20I century against New Zealand cricket team occurred when Kishan appeared in a video that 2 Sloggers posted on YouTube.

Kishan made a joke in the clip when he said “Aur konse do match? Do saal” which means “Which two matches? Two years” about his time away from regular games because he achieved a record double century in ODIs. The comment instantly struck a chord with fans, resurfacing debates around selection consistency at the international level.

Kishan first experienced frustration because he established the fastest ODI double hundred record after scoring 210 runs off 113 balls against the Bangladesh cricket team in December 2022. The ODI series which followed against Sri Lanka in January 2023 saw Gill being chosen to open the batting line-up. Kishan returned later in the series against New Zealand, this time batting in the middle order, while Gill went on to score his own double century.

Watch the video:

ALSO SEE: Watch: “On cricket…”- Former MP Chief Minister shares on-field action with Ravindra Jadeja in viral video

Kishan turns past frustration into opportunity before T20 World Cup

The BCCI archive contains an old video which shows Rohit Sharma joking with Kishan by saying "Ishan, yaar aapne 200 banake 3 match nahi khela."Kishan responded with "Bhaiyya captain toh aap ho" which showed he was joking yet he wanted to maintain authority.

Rohit explained Gill's selection through his current performance and team needs while he confirmed that Kishan remained a valid choice. The 2023 ODI World Cup marked the end of Kishan's limited appearances which began with his match against Afghanistan.

The situation has changed since 2026. Kishan returned to T20I action against New Zealand by scoring 232 runs from four innings which included one century and one fifty. Kishan became the main wicketkeeper for India because Sanju Samson lost his playing form during the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 competition.

The Indian cricket team currently prepares for the T20 World Cup while they monitor the most important sports event of the year. Indian cricketers Ishan Kishan and Arshdeep Singh revealed their preferred champions for the Australian Open 2026 men's singles final which Novak Djokovic will compete against Carlos Alcaraz at Rod Laver Arena on February 1. 

The upcoming final match will feature two players from different generations who both want to achieve historic milestones at Melbourne Park. Djokovic is targeting his 11th Australian Open championship which would also become his 25th Grand Slam singles title. The Serbian legend reached his 11th final in Melbourne after a gruelling five-set semifinal victory over Jannik Sinner, once again showcasing his trademark resilience on the biggest stage.

Alcaraz reached his first Australian Open final after he defeated Alexander Zverev in their semifinal match which lasted 5 hours and 27 minutes making it the longest semifinal match in tournament history. A World No 1 player who faced cramps and extreme physical fatigue demonstrated impressive determination to advance to the final match. A Sunday victory would grant him both his first Australian Open title and a complete career Grand Slam, making him the youngest player to achieve this milestone.

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Team Carlos Alcaraz or Team Novak Djokovic? 🎾🤔

Here’s who @ishankishan51 and @arshdeepsinghh are backing ahead of the Australian Open final 😎 #TeamIndia | @AustralianOpen pic.twitter.com/gNUYB2v3qu

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 1, 2026

ALSO SEE: Top 5 shocking upsets in T20 World Cup history

Kishan backs Alcaraz’s fearless style, Arshdeep trusts Djokovic’s experience in Australian Open final

Ishan Kishan revealed his support for Alcaraz after India won their fifth T20I match against New Zealand. The left-handed batter explained that he relates to the Spaniard’s aggressive, instinctive style of play, which he sees as a modern batting approach used by India’s current players.

The experienced Arshdeep Singh backed Djokovic because he showed coolness during matches together with his desire to win his 25th Grand Slam title. The Australian Open 2026 final presents an exciting match between two top players because their head-to-head record stands even, while both competitors aim to achieve historic milestones.

In the fifth T20 International against New Zealand on January 31 at Thiruvananthapuram, Ishan Kishan of Team India produced a spectacular batting display. When India opted to bat first after winning the toss, Kishan entered the game at number three and applied immediate pressure on the New Zealand bowlers. He exhibited an aggressive style of play and collected his first hundred in T20 Internationals by scoring a magnificently played and executed century.

Over the 20 overs of play, Kishan pounded 103 runs off 43 balls with 6 fours and an incredible 10 sixes for a strike rate of 239.53. His 103 runs helped India reach a total of 271 runs for 5 wickets after their allotted 20 overs. In the entire series Kishan scored 215 runs in 4 matches for an average of 53.75 and a remarkable strike rate of 231.18; these numbers clearly illustrate Kishan's outstanding form and contribution to the Indian Team's success.

See Also: Watch: Ishan Kishan's maiden T20I century celebration in IND vs NZ 5th T20I

#3 1000 T20I runs

After his fantastic century, Ishan Kishan has made his mark as a member of the elite group of players who have reached 1,000 runs in T20I cricket for India. He becomes only the 14th Indian batter to achieve this feat. Ishan made his international T20I debut against England in 2021. After a brief hiatus from T20I cricket, he returned during the New Zealand series and has played 36 T20I matches. He has scored over 1,011 runs across that period in 36 innings while averaging 28.88 and striking at an incredible rate of 137.92 to date. Ishan’s T20I record consists of 1 century and 7 half-centuries, which demonstrates his ability to play effectively on the international stage.

In the Thiruvananthapuram T20I, Indian cricketer Ishan Kishan slammed his maiden T20I century, and his celebration was full of excitement. 

Leading the series by 3-1, India chose to bat first in the fifth and last game of the T20I series, which Thiruvananthapuram is hosting on Saturday (January 31). Thanks to 103 off 43 balls from Ishan Kishan, India managed to score 271/5 in 20 overs. 

Ishan came to bat at no.3 after India lost the opener and home Sanju Samson (6) cheaply in the third over. From the sixth over, Ishan had a fiery partnership with the in-form skipper Suryakumar Yadav, as they had a 137-run partnership for the third wicket.

Watch: Abhishek Sharma flicks Kyle Jamieson for massive six during IND vs NZ 5th T20I

Ishan Kishan slammed 42-ball hundred

Ishan Kishan was dealing with sixes, as even fours became a rare scene. After Ishan completed his fifty in 28 balls, he completed his maiden T20I century and second international hundred in just 42 balls. It was the fifth fastest T20I century by an Indian but the fastest T20I hundred against New Zealand by any batter.  

Watch: Celebration of Ishan Kishan after completed T20I century

While Ishan was really excited after reaching his 100-run mark, his partner Hardik Pandya was also in full joy and congratulated the left-handed batter. 

An ISHANDAAR Blockbuster! 🙌

✅ 1st T20I century
✅ 1000 runs in T20Is
✅ 6000 runs in T20s
✅ 10 sixes in the innings #IshanKishan with a statement knock just 7 days before the ICC Men’s #T20WorldCup begins! 🤩#INDvNZ 5th T20I 👉 LIVE NOW ➡️ https://t.co/7DIDSDu12k pic.twitter.com/c3n77mmcR1

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 31, 2026

With the help of six fours and 10 sixes, Ishan slammed 103 off 43 balls before losing his wicket in the 18th over. 

India are set to face New Zealand in the final match of the five-match T20I series in Thiruvananthapuram, and team management are considering three key changes to their playing XI ahead of the decider. With the series already won, this fixture presents an opportunity to adjust combinations and manage player workloads before the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

One potential change is the return of all-rounder Axar Patel, who missed earlier games due to a minor injury and could rejoin the side to strengthen both batting depth and spin options. India may also look to rest some frontline players to balance fitness concerns, particularly with a hectic international calendar approaching. This tactical rotation could include resting senior quicks or all-rounders to give emerging talents a chance.

Another area of focus is the batting order, where the return of dynamic batters could add firepower in the middle overs. The final T20I is likely to feature a mix of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters as India fine-tune their setup and assess bench strength. These changes reflect a strategic approach to maintain momentum and experiment with combinations ahead of major tournaments.

See Also: Watch: Pakistan reaches out to USA to complain on BCCI power in cricket ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

#1 Ishan Kishan for Jasprit Bumrah

Initial reports had indicated that Jasprit Bumrah would feature in the first, third and fifth T20Is against New Zealand, but the pacer eventually played the fourth match instead. With that in mind, India could consider resting Bumrah for Saturday’s game to manage his workload. The team may also look to tweak their combination if the fast bowler is given a break.

Should Bumrah be rested, India are expected to strengthen their batting depth by adding an extra batter. In the previous match, Harshit Rana batted at No. 7, but including Ishan Kishan would provide more stability and firepower. The team management has hinted at Kishan’s inclusion, confirming that he has recovered from the niggle that ruled him out of the fourth T20I.

#2 Varun Chakaravarthy for Ravi Bishnoi

Varun Chakaravarthy has sat out the last two T20Is and is likely to make his return in the series finale. To accommodate him, Ravi Bishnoi appears the most likely player to be rested, especially since he is not part of India’s T20 World Cup squad. This change would allow the team to focus on players central to their plans for upcoming major tournaments.

Bishnoi had been included as a backup option in case Washington Sundar was unavailable, but Sundar is expected to regain full fitness ahead of the ICC event. As a result, prioritising Bishnoi’s game time is less important at this stage. Instead, the team management may look to ensure Varun Chakaravarthy regains rhythm and sharpness across different bowling phases before the tournament.

#3 Axar Patel for Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya neither bowled nor made a significant impact with the bat in the previous match, which strengthens the case for resting him in the fifth T20I against New Zealand. Having featured in all four games so far, the all-rounder has been consistently involved, even if he hasn’t gone all out in the field. With his fitness needing careful management, a break could be beneficial ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Axar Patel appears to have fully recovered from the finger injury he picked up in the series opener and is well placed to step in. His inclusion would allow India to manage Hardik’s workload while maintaining balance in both batting and bowling departments.

As the reigning champions of the previous World Cup, expectations are sky high for Team India as they gear up for the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup scheduled to start on 7 February and be held across Sri Lanka and India. The fact that the tournament will be played on home soil puts additional pressure on India's team. India has a balanced squad that includes plenty of options for batting, bowling, and all-around capabilities, however, who will open for India is one of the ongoing discussions among fans and the media. The role of the openers is very important to set the tone during the Powerplay in the T20 format; so there is a tough choice for team management to find the best pair from so many candidates with varying skill sets to consistently get off to a fast start and continue to score aggressively during the tournament.

Abhishek Sharma’s Rise as a First-Choice Opener

With his explosive batting and fearless style, Abhishek Sharma has all but locked up a slot on the Indian team's top of the order. Abhishek’s ability to clear the ropes with ease during the first six overs of an innings and handle pace and spin comfortably gives the Indian side a very versatile weapon to apply pressure to opposing attacks from ball one. On the slower, flatter pitches often found in the subcontinent, where early runs can be pivotal to the ultimate outcome of a match, Abhishek’s aggressiveness is perfectly suited to affect that outcome. While his role is known, the next frontier for the selection panel is to identify a partner who can complement Abhishek’s attacking instincts and help create balance to the top of the order.

See Also: 3 greatest T20 World Cup finals of all time

Samson vs Kishan: The Opening Partner Debate

Sanju Samson appears to be the frontrunner to open alongside Abhishek Sharma, thanks to his recent performances and versatility. Samson has shown the ability to anchor an innings when required while still maintaining an attacking approach. However, consistency has often been his biggest challenge. Ishan Kishan, on the other hand, offers raw power and left-handed variety, which could trouble opposition bowlers early on. Kishan’s aggressive nature suits Powerplay batting, but his inclusion could affect team balance depending on wicketkeeping combinations. Both players bring unique strengths, making the decision a tactical one rather than a straightforward choice.

Striking the Right Balance for a Title Defence

The Indian team's management must make sure to not only show aggression but also discipline before they select their opening pair. An explosive partnership will score fast runs and also relieve pressure on the middle order. Choosing between Samson and Kishan may depend on the pitch condition, the type of bowler in the opposing team, and game situations. Having options will give India the adaptability to be flexible with who is chosen depending on the venue and game plan. There are expected to be many high-pressure knockout matches for which consistency at the top of the order will be a significant contributor to maintain momentum as the tournament progresses.

India's batting line-up at the top of the order may well dictate how they will perform as they attempt to defend their T20 World Cup title. A strong start from the top will lead to the freedom for players such as Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Rinku Singh to play their game in the middle and back end of an innings. As the tournament gets closer, much will be observed regarding India's development of their batting line-up's most critical issue. The correct combination of aggression, stability and adaptability at the top of the order may be all that separates the team from another monumental achievement or further disappointment.

Visakhapatnam is hosting the fourth game of the five-match India vs New Zealand T20I series on Wednesday (January 28), while the hosts Men in Blue have already secured the series by leading it 3–0. However, the Indian fans have some bad news for the Visakhapatnam T20I as Ishan Kishan is not playing. Is there any worrying news for the Indian cricket fans ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026? We can know it here.

IND vs NZ, 4th T20I: Toss Update and Playing XI

Ishan Kishan enjoying international cricket return 

The 27-year-old Ishan Kishan made his international cricket return after two years and two months during the T20I series opener, which he started with a four on the first ball. Although he was dismissed for eight runs in that game, he then slammed the match-winning 76 off 32 balls with 11 fours and four sixes after the hosts lost both their openers in the first seven balls, as they chased down the 209-run target in just 15.2 overs.

In the last game, while India were chasing 154 runs, they lost their opener Sanju Samson for a golden duck before Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan had a fiery 53-run partnership for the second wicket in just 3.1 overs, as India completed the chase in just 10 overs after losing two wickets. Opener Abhishek scored 68 not out off 20 balls, and captain Suryakumar Yadav was not out for 57 off 26 balls. Before losing his wicket, the no.3 batter Ishan scored 28 off just 13 balls with three fours and two sixes. 

IND vs NZ 4th T20I: Why is Ishan Kishan not playing?

At the toss of the fourth T20I, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav chose to field first after winning the toss, where he also revealed the one forced change. The left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh replaced Ishan Kishan for the match, as the Indian skipper revealed that Ishan had a niggle during the last game. The Indian captain feels Ishan will be ok soon, as the Indian fans do not need to worry about Ishan Kishan, who has now become a new fan favourite for his aggressive batting performance. 

In this IND vs NZ today match prediction, the fourth T20I between India and New Zealand is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at the ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. India won the third T20I match by eight wickets and won the series 3-0. New Zealand, batting first, posted a below-par total at this venue. Glenn Phillips scored 48 runs off 40 balls, while  Mark Chapman scored 32 runs off just 23 balls. 

In response, the Indian team comfortably chased down the target in just 10 overs. Indian superstar opener Abhishek Sharma scored 68 runs off 20 balls, captain Suryakumar Yadav scored 57 runs off 6 balls and helped her team to chase down the target. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah took three wickets.

Also Read: West Indies tour to South Africa, 1st T20I: SA vs WI, Probable Playing 11, Where To Watch, Live Streaming Details

IND vs NZ Match Details

• Match: India vs New Zealand, 4th T20I

• Date: 28th January 2025

• Time: 7.00 PM IST

• Venue: ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam

• Live Streaming: FanCode

IND vs NZ Weather Report

Pitch Report - ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium

The pitch surface at Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium is known for being batting-friendly and conducive to high scores. Although the large boundaries create some difficulty, the ground has typically seen high totals. Additionally, dew may play a role in the second innings.

Top Batters to Watch – IND vs NZ

• Suryakumar Yadav (IND): 171 runs in this series 

• Glenn Phillips (NZ): 145 runs in this series 

• Abhishek Sharma (IND): 152 runs in this series 

Top Bowlers to Watch – IND vs NZ

• Hardik Pandya (IND): 4 wickets in this series 

• Varun Chakaravarthy IND): 3 wickets in this series 

• Shivam Dube (IND): 3 wickets in this series 

IND vs NZ Recent Form

     Winning Probability

• India: 80%

• New Zealand: 20

IND vs NZ Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If IND Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 55–70

• Predicted Total: 190–220

• Match Result: IND to win

Scenario 2: If NZ Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 45–55

• Predicted Total: 175–185

• Match Result: IND to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

IND vs NZ Predicted Playing XIs

India

Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (WK), Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shreyas Iyer, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh. 

New Zealand 

Devon Conway, Tim Seifert, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips (WK), Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (C), Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy

IND vs NZ Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

According to our IND vs NZ today match prediction, India are the favourites to win this 4th T20I  match. The likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav will be key players to watch out for.

IND vs NZ Match FAQs

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has made a strong return to international cricket. After missing out on selection in all three formats since the end of the 2023 season, the 27-year-old earned another chance due to his excellent domestic performances. His form in Indian domestic cricket helped him force his way back into the national side.

Kishan was the top run-scorer in the 2025–26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 517 runs in 10 matches at an average of over 57 and a strike rate of 197.32. He also led Jharkhand to a historic title win. These performances earned him a recall for the New Zealand T20I series and the upcoming T20 World Cup. In the series, he scored a brilliant 76 off 32 balls in the second T20I and a quick 28 off 13 balls in the third match.

Kishan has batted at No. 3 in all three games of the series. While some believe he should open the innings once Tilak Varma returns, he may be better suited to the one-down role in T20 cricket. With this in mind, here are three key reasons why Ishan Kishan is best placed at No. 3 in the India–New Zealand T20I series.

Also read -Star RCB batter named Karnataka captain despite KL Rahul’s return for the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season

1. Strong Numbers at One-Down

No matter the tactics, performance matters first—and Ishan Kishan’s numbers clearly support him batting at No. 3. In his T20I career, Kishan has scored 908 runs in 35 matches at an average of under 27 and a strike rate of 131.59. Out of his 35 innings, seven have come at No. 3, including his last six.

At one-down, Kishan averages an impressive 32.28 with a strike rate of over 167, along with three half-centuries. These numbers are much better than his overall T20I record. As an opener, he has batted in 27 innings but averages only 24.51 at a strike rate of under 123. His only other outing came at No. 6, where he scored 20 off 14 balls*. These stats clearly show that No. 3 is his best position in T20Is.

2. Ideal Spot for a Flexible and Versatile Batter

Ishan Kishan is one of India’s most versatile batters in white-ball cricket. In his international career, he has batted at every position from No. 1 to No. 7, which shows his flexibility. In ODIs, he has scored half-centuries at No. 3, 4, and 5, apart from opening.

His biggest strength is his ability to play both pace and spin with ease. This allows him to adapt quickly, whether he walks in early or comes in after the powerplay. Batting at No. 3 gives him the perfect balance—he can attack early or build the innings when needed.

3. Perfect Link Between Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav

Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav are fixed picks in India’s T20I top four. While some suggest Surya should bat at No. 3, his best numbers have come at No. 4. Since Abhishek is already a left-handed opener, India would prefer not to have another left-hander opening with him.

Ishan Kishan fits perfectly at No. 3 and acts as a bridge between Abhishek and Surya. This was clear in the last two T20Is against New Zealand. In the second match, Abhishek was out for a duck, and Kishan stepped in early to smash 76 off 32 balls. In the third game, he again came in early and added a quick 53-run partnership with Abhishek.

In both matches, Surya benefited the most. Kishan’s aggressive starts allowed the Indian captain to settle in and score back-to-back half-centuries. With Kishan batting at No. 3, India’s already strong T20I batting line-up looks even more dangerous.

When India lost Sanju Samson on the very first ball of their 154-run chase during the third T20I of the five-match series at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, New Zealand perhaps smelt a chance to make regular inroads in the evening and create trouble for the home side to make a strong return in the series. However, it didn’t happen at all.

Ishan Kishan, who smashed a jaw-dropping knock a couple of evenings ago, continued with the same approach and used the pace of Matt Henry to put him into the stands for a massive six on the opening over, which caused the New Zealand pacer 14 runs despite getting the success. Abhishek Sharma was equally excellent from the other end, but Kishan’s video of that shot went viral on social media platforms.

See Also: Twitter Reactions: Abhishek Sharma celebrates India’s second fastest T20I half-century in IND vs NZ 3rd T20I

India completed the chase in just 10 overs with eight wickets in hand as Abhishek remained unbeaten on 68 runs in just 20 deliveries, thanks to his seven boundaries and five sixes. At the same time, the captain, Suryakumar Yadav, smashed 57 undefeated runs at a strike rate of around 220.

Ishan Kishan's six goes viral from Guwahati T20I

India completed the victory in 60 deliveries, which is the most balls to spare against a full-member team in a chase of over 150 runs in a T20I game, which overtook West Indies' win with 37 balls to spare against the Proteas in Kingston, a couple of years ago.  

Watch the video here: 

Isko bolte hai CARNAGE 🔥💯pic.twitter.com/2dzwRih0Hf

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) January 25, 2026

India also labeled with Pakistan in winning eleven consecutive T-28 series wins among the Full Member nations. It’s also the 10 consecutive series victories at home among the Full Member nations, two more than Australia, which got eight series victories at home between 2006 and 2010.

“That's what my team wants from me, and I just want to execute all the time. But obviously, it's not easy to do it every time, but I think it's all about mental as well, and the atmosphere you get around your dressing room as well. That's more than impossible for anyone.” Abhishek expressed after completing the 14-ball fifty.

Brief Score: India 155/2 (Abhishek Sharma 68*, Suryakumar Yadav 57*, Matt Henry 1/28) beat New Zealand 153/9 (Glenn Phillips 48, Jasprit Bumrah 3/17, Ravi Bishnoi 2/18) by eight wickets