With the countdown to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 well and truly underway, India have been forced into late changes to their T20I squad ahead of the five-match home series against New Zealand.
The BCCI confirmed on Friday that Shreyas Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi have been drafted into the squad, replacing the injured Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar respectively. The New Zealand series is seen as a crucial dress rehearsal before the global tournament begins next month in India and Sri Lanka.
Sundar ruled out, Bishnoi comes in
Washington Sundar’s absence comes as a blow to India’s plans. The all-rounder reported acute discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand. Subsequent scans revealed a side strain, forcing him out of the T20I series.
According to the board, Sundar has been advised to rest for a few days before reporting to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for further management of his injury. With time running short before the World Cup, India have opted for wrist-spinner Ravi Bishnoi as his replacement, adding another attacking spin option to their bowling unit.
Shreyas Iyer returns amid Tilak Varma setback
India have also turned to experience in the batting department. Shreyas Iyer has been named in the squad for the first three T20Is, stepping in for Tilak Varma, who has undergone surgery for an abdominal issue.
Iyer’s inclusion offers middle-order stability and leadership at a time when the team management will be keen to test combinations. While his long-term role remains to be seen, the series provides Iyer with an opportunity to push his case ahead of World Cup selection calls.
Squad depth under the spotlight
The updated squad reflects India’s focus on balance and flexibility as they fine-tune preparations for the tournament:
India T20I squad vs New Zealand:
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (WK), Ravi Bishnoi
The presence of multiple spin options alongside proven pace spearheads like Bumrah and Arshdeep underlines India’s intent to build a squad suited to subcontinental conditions.
World Cup context
India open their T20 World Cup campaign against USA on February 7 and are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, Netherlands and USA. New Zealand, meanwhile, begin their campaign against Afghanistan on February 8 and are grouped with South Africa, Canada and UAE.
The first T20I between India and New Zealand will be played on Wednesday at the VCA Stadium, Jamtha, setting the stage for a series that could shape final World Cup combinations for both sides.
With injuries already testing squad depth, every performance in this series will be closely watched — not just by selectors, but by fans eager to see how India shape up ahead of the biggest stage in T20 cricket.
