3 changes India could make for 5th IND vs NZ T20I
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India could reshuffle their playing XI for 5th IND vs NZ T20I after a heavy defeat in Auckland.
India will look to finish their five-match T20I series against New Zealand on a winning note when the two sides meet in the fifth and final match at Seddon Park, Hamilton, on November 1.
India had won the first three matches to seal the series but suffered an 87 runs defeat in the fourth T20I in Auckland. New Zealand posted 259/7 before restricting India to 172/9, exposing some concerns in the batting order and bowling combination.
With the series already secured, the team management could use the final game to experiment with their bench strength. Here are three changes India could consider for the fifth T20I.
Changes India could make for last IND vs NZ T20I
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3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar in place of Prince Yadav
India could bring back experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar in place of Prince Yadav for the series finale. Bhuvneshwar’s first three matches in the series did not go well by his standards. However, judging an experienced bowler on just three outings would be premature.
The veteran pacer deserves more opportunities to find his rhythm and get back into his groove. He brings considerable international experience and the ability to swing the new ball. His variations and control at the death could also provide India with another option in the bowling attack.
Bhuvneshwar enjoyed an excellent IPL 2026 campaign, picking up 28 wickets for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Giving him another opportunity could help India assess his role ahead of future international assignments.
2. Shivam Dube in place of Nitish Kumar Reddy
India could also consider bringing Shivam Dube into the playing XI in place of Nitish Kumar Reddy. While Nitish offers a seam-bowling option, Dube provides greater power-hitting ability in the middle order.
One of India’s recurring concerns throughout the series has been their struggle against spin bowling. Dube’s ability to take on spinners and clear the boundary could be particularly useful in addressing this weakness. He can also contribute with a few overs of medium pace, giving the captain another bowling option.
With the series already decided, the fifth T20I could be an ideal opportunity to assess Dube’s impact in the middle order.
1. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in place of Sanju Samson
The most interesting change could be the return of teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in place of Sanju Samson.
Sooryavanshi has featured in two matches in the series with his best coming in the third T20I, where he impressed with a blistering 45 off just 19 deliveries. He also shared a 133-run opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma. However, he was left out of the fourth match after Ishan Kishan returned from injury.
Bringing Sooryavanshi back would allow India to test the young batter at the top of the order alongside Abhishek.
The 15-year-old’s fearless approach could give India another explosive start as they look to end the New Zealand T20I tour with a victory.
Who is leading IND vs NZ T20I?
India are 3-1 ahead in the series.
When will the last NZ vs IND T20I take place?
The last NZ vs IND T20I will be played on November 1.
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