The excitement of the five-match T20 series between India and New Zealand moves to Raipur as both teams prepare for the second encounter at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium. India currently leads the series 1-0 after a convincing victory in the opening match. However, the Men in Blue face a selection dilemma ahead. Of this crucial clash due to injury concerns in the camp.
Axar Patel Injury Update
Star all-rounder Axar Patel, who has been a vital cog in India's T20 setup, is reportedly struggling with an injury sustained during the first match. His participation in the second T20I remains highly doubtful. Axar's absence would mean India loses a reliable bowling option and a hard-hitting batter in the lower order. The team management is closely monitoring his condition, but a replacement seems inevitable for the Raipur game.
The Return of Kuldeep Yadav
In the absence of Axar Patel, India is likely to turn to the experienced chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav. The Raipur track is known to offer assistance to spinners as the game progresses and the ball gets softer, while kuldeep’s ability to extract turn and bounce could be the X-factor India needs to dismantle the New Zealand middle order. Along with Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep could form a formidable spin twin attack that might trouble the Kiwis.
Pitch and Weather Conditions in Raipur
This will be the first time New Zealand plays a T20 International in Raipur. Historically, the pitch here has been balanced, offering something for everyone. Fast bowlers can expect some swing and extra bounce with the new ball under lights, while batsmen can score freely once they settle in, while as the match reaches its middle overs, the surface tends to slow down, favoring the spinners. The weather forecast is clear with a cool evening expected, ensuring a full 40-over contest without any rain interruptions.
Head to Head and Key Players
India holds a superior record against New Zealand in T20Is, winning 15 out of the 28 matches played so far. At home, India's dominance is even more evident with a 66% win rate, while all eyes will be on Abhishek Sharma, who is currently the top scorer for India in this series with a brilliant 84-run knock. On the other hand, New Zealand will rely heavily on Glenn Phillips, who showed his class with a rapid 78 in the previous game, while jacob Duffy will lead the bowling attack for the visitors, hoping to make early inroads into the Indian batting lineup.