New Zealand vs India

IND vs NZ 3rd T20I: India Eye Series Win in Guwahati

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T20I 

Blue Storm Rising Before the World Cup 🌊🔥

 

India vs New Zealand 3rd T20I in Guwahati as India lead 2-0 in the series. Match updates, key players, pitch report and World Cup 2026 context.

Table of Contents

Series Background

India have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, showing dominant form ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

After winning the opening match in Nagpur, India produced a stunning run chase in Raipur. New Zealand posted a strong 208/6, powered by captain Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra.

India responded with intent. Ishan Kishan blasted 56 off just 23 balls, while skipper Suryakumar Yadav smashed an unbeaten 82 off 37, ending his T20I fifty drought in style.

3rd T20I Live Updates

The third T20I is underway at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. New Zealand won the toss and opted to bat first on a surface known for high scores.

Openers Tim Seifert and Devon Conway walked out to face India’s fiery new-ball attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, who has looked sharp throughout the series.

With a 2-0 advantage, India have a golden chance to seal the series early and maintain momentum heading into the World Cup.

Key Performers So Far

India’s batting lineup has been relentless. Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, and Shivam Dube have consistently dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack.

Youngsters Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh continue to impress, while Kishan’s return has intensified competition for Sanju Samson.

For New Zealand, much depends on Santner and Ravindra. Big performances are crucial to keep the series alive.

Guwahati Pitch Report

The Guwahati pitch is a batsman-friendly surface with short boundaries and true bounce. Teams batting first often target totals above 190.

Another high-scoring contest is expected, making bowlers’ execution and death-over discipline key.

Broader Context & World Cup Build-Up

India recently edged New Zealand by four wickets in an ODI at Vadodara, though the Kiwis dominated the 2024 Test series 3-0.

T20 cricket now takes center stage, with both teams fine-tuning combinations just weeks before the T20 World Cup 2026, where India will defend their title.

Historically, India lead New Zealand 16-10 in T20Is, and current form only strengthens their position as favorites.

 

 

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Will Young’s India Challenge: “The Dream Is to Win Again”

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Will Young

From spinning tracks to ODI battles — Will Young is back to test India again.

 

Will Young is once again in the spotlight as New Zealand prepare for their ODI series against India in January 2026. The experienced right-hander has become a key figure in New Zealand’s plans, especially after his memorable performance in India last year.

The 33-year-old batsman played a major role in New Zealand’s historic 3-0 Test series whitewash over India in November 2024. Batting on difficult turning pitches, Young scored 244 runs at an impressive average of 48.8. He handled world-class spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja with calm and confidence, proving his class in challenging conditions.

Speaking during a training session at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara on January 9, 2026, Young called that Test tour the peak of his career. He had stepped in for Kane Williamson and embraced the responsibility, delivering when it mattered most. Now, his focus has shifted to the three-match ODI series starting January 11.

Young believes New Zealand are well prepared after strong recent one-day performances at home against England and West Indies. “The dream is to win another series in India,” he said, while also acknowledging how tough the challenge will be in the limited-overs format.

Interestingly, Young dismissed any talk of revenge following New Zealand’s loss to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy final. “It’s not even in our minds at all,” he stated. According to him, this bilateral series is about growth, momentum, and preparation for major ICC tournaments like the ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy.

The stakes remain high, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching later this year. New Zealand are looking to build a flexible and confident squad, with players like Glenn Phillips adding depth and versatility.

Young has already made an impact in the ongoing ODI series. In the second ODI on January 13, 2026, he played a steady knock alongside Daryl Mitchell after early wickets fell, once again showing his adaptability across formats.

With experience, composure, and recent success on Indian soil, Will Young stands as a vital senior player for New Zealand — ready to lead another tough challenge in India.

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