India targets second T20I win in New Zealand series
India will face New Zealand in the second T20I of their five-match series on October 24, 2026, at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The match follows India’s four-wicket win in the opener, where they chased down 225 with two balls remaining. Shreyas Iyer’s side now leads 1-0 and will aim to extend their momentum, while New Zealand seeks to level the series on home soil.
The game begins at 12:30 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 12:00 PM IST. India’s bowling unit, which conceded 225 in the first match, will look to improve. New Zealand, meanwhile, will focus on addressing their bowling and fielding after failing to defend a substantial total.
Where to Watch in India
The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network in India. Fans can also stream it via SonyLIV, provided they have an active subscription.
India’s lineup features Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at the top, with Sanju Samson moving to No. 3 after wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan was ruled out with a right adductor strain. The bowling attack includes Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Axar Patel, who will aim to restrict New Zealand’s scoring.
New Zealand’s team, led by Mitchell Santner, includes Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips as key batters. Their bowlers, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, and Kyle Jamieson, will need to perform better after the first match.
Key Context
India holds a 20-11 advantage in head-to-head T20I matches, with one tie. India leads the series 1-0 after their opening win.
India’s bowlers will aim to restrict New Zealand’s scoring after conceding 225 in the first T20I. New Zealand, meanwhile, will look to address their bowling and fielding concerns to level the series.
With Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in contention for a spot, the match could serve as a platform for young Indian players. His inclusion alongside Abhishek Sharma suggests a focus on aggressive batting early in the innings, though the final XI will be confirmed at the toss.
