IND vs NZ: Major Squad Change for Remaining T20Is as Shreyas Iyer Retained

In a significant development during the ongoing five-match T20 series between India and New Zealand, the Indian team management has decided to retain Shreyas Iyer for the remaining two matches. India has already secured the series with a dominant 3-0 lead, making the final two games an opportunity to test the bench strength before the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Shreyas Iyer's Retention Explained

Shreyas Iyer was initially brought into the squad as a replacement for the injured Tilak Varma for the first three T20Is. However, with Varma still undergoing rehabilitation following his surgery, the BCCI has extended Iyer's stay with the team. Iyer, who has been out of the T20I setup since December 2023, will now have a chance to prove his mettle in the shortest format if given a place in the playing XI for the final two encounters.

Tilak Varma's Road to Recovery

Tilak Varma suffered an injury while playing a Vijay Hazare match in Rajkot earlier this month. After a successful surgery, he's currently stationed at the Center of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. While he misses the remainder of the New Zealand series, the good news for Indian fans is that he's expected to be match-fit by February 3. He's slated to join the squad in Mumbai for the T20 World. Cup warm-up matches, ensuring his availability for the mega event starting February 7.

Tactical Changes in Playing XI

With the series already in the bag, captain Suryakumar Yadav might look to rotate the squad, while players like Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan, who have been on the sidelines, could get a look-in. The management is keen on assessing all options before finalizing the combination for the World Cup. Iyer’s experience in the middle order could be vital, especially on pitches that offer turn and bounce.

Injury Concerns for Washington Sundar

Apart from Tilak Varma, the fitness of Washington Sundar remains a major talking point. The all-rounder has been out of action since the first ODI against New Zealand in Baroda, while latest reports suggest that he needs another two weeks to achieve full fitness. This timeline puts his participation in the early stages of the T20 World Cup in doubt, leaving the selectors with a tough decision to make regarding his inclusion.

Updated Team India Squad

Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (VC),. Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (WK), Ravi Bishnoi.