India vs New Zealand T20I Series 2026: 5th T20I Playing XI & Preview

India and New Zealand head into the fifth and final T20I of the series on Saturday, January 31, at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram with contrasting motivations. India have already sealed the series with a 3–1 lead, but the final match still carries significance for both teams. India will aim to finish the series strongly and test combinations, while New Zealand have an opportunity to reduce the margin of defeat and regain confidence after a turbulent tour.

The fourth T20I in Visakhapatnam marked a turning point in the series. After being asked to bat, New Zealand produced a commanding batting display, posting 215 for 7, led by Tim Seifert’s fluent 62 and valuable contributions from Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell. India’s chase never fully took off after early setbacks, despite a valiant counterattack from Shivam Dube and a fighting knock from Rinku Singh. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Santner, ensured a convincing 50 run victory, keeping the series alive and setting up an intriguing finale.

What is the Context of this Match?

The fifth T20I arrives with India holding a clear upper hand after winning the first three matches of the series. Their dominance was built on explosive batting and disciplined bowling, which left New Zealand struggling to keep pace. However, the visitors finally found rhythm in the fourth game, delivering a performance that reflected their true potential.

For India, they will continue to experience playing with five pure bowlers without using all-rounders in the game to prepare themselves for scenarios that could come in the World Cup, which is only a week away. For New Zealand, it is a chance to build on their recent victory and finish the series with renewed confidence. While the series result is already decided, the contest in Thiruvananthapuram still holds relevance in shaping narratives for both sides.

India Probable XI Against New Zealand for the 5th T20I

Abhishek Sharma: Abhishek has enjoyed a stellar series, consistently providing explosive starts at the top of the order. Although he was dismissed for a duck in the previous match, his impact across the series remains undeniable. India will expect him to bounce back strongly in the final game. He has 1,267 runs in 38 T20Is with 2 hundreds and 8 fifties at a strike rate of 190.

Sanju Samson (wk): Samson finally found some runs in the fourth T20I, but his overall returns in the series have been underwhelming. With competition for places intensifying, he will be eager to deliver a more substantial contribution. He has 1,075 runs in 56 T20Is with 3 hundreds and 3 fifties at a strike rate close to 150.

Suryakumar Yadav (c): Suryakumar continues to anchor India’s batting at number three, especially with uncertainty around Ishan Kishan’s availability. His ability to control the tempo and accelerate at will makes him India’s most influential batter in the middle order. He has 2,967 runs in 103 T20Is with 4 hundreds and 23 fifties at a strike rate of 163.

Rinku Singh: Rinku has settled into the number four role and continues to provide stability in the middle order. His 39 in the previous match showed his ability to absorb pressure and counterattack when required. He has 633 runs in 39 T20Is at a strike rate above 160 with 3 fifties.

Shivam Dube: Dube has emerged as one of India’s most impactful players in the series. His explosive 65 off 23 balls in the fourth T20I was a standout effort in a losing cause, reaffirming his value as a middle order enforcer. He has 709 runs in 54 T20Is at a strike rate of 140, along with 26 wickets.

Hardik Pandya: Pandya had a quiet outing in the previous match, contributing little with bat and ball. However, his all round ability and experience make him a crucial figure in India’s setup. He has 2,029 runs in 128 T20Is with 7 fifties at a strike rate above 140, along with 105 wickets.

Harshit Rana: Rana went wicketless in the fourth match but remains part of India’s long term plans in the format. His pace and aggression provide a different dimension to the attack. He has 9 wickets in 9 T20Is.

Kuldeep Yadav: Kuldeep’s two wicket spell in the previous match indicated a return to form. His variations and control make him a key middle overs option. He has 93 wickets in 53 T20Is.

Jasprit Bumrah: Bumrah had an off day in Visakhapatnam, conceding runs and finishing with just one wicket. Despite that, his pedigree and ability to deliver in crucial moments make him indispensable. He has 107 wickets in 86 T20Is.

Ravi Bishnoi: Bishnoi endured a tough outing in the fourth match, conceding runs despite picking up a wicket. India are likely to persist with him given his wicket taking potential. He has 64 wickets in 44 T20Is.

New Zealand Probable XI Against India for the 5th T20I

Tim Seifert: Seifert finally found his rhythm in the series, producing a fluent 62 off 36 balls in the fourth T20I. His ability to exploit the powerplay makes him a vital cog in New Zealand’s batting lineup. He has 1,948 runs in 80 T20Is with 13 fifties at a strike rate of 140.

Devon Conway: Conway delivered a composed 44 off 23 balls in the previous match, showcasing his class and ability to anchor the innings. His consistency at the top remains crucial for New Zealand. He has 1,739 runs in 66 T20Is with 8 fifties.

Rachin Ravindra: Ravindra’s form has been inconsistent, and New Zealand will expect greater impact from him in the final match. His dual ability with bat and ball adds balance to the side. He has 600 runs in 42 T20Is with 3 fifties at a strike rate of 135, along with 14 wickets.

Glenn Phillips: Phillips provided a quickfire cameo in the fourth match, accelerating against spin and maintaining momentum in the middle overs. His explosive batting and athletic fielding make him a key asset. He has 2,098 runs in 87 T20Is with 2 hundreds and 11 fifties, along with 6 wickets.

Mark Chapman: Chapman struggled again, failing to convert his start into a meaningful contribution. His inconsistency remains a concern for New Zealand. He has 1,980 runs in 104 T20Is with 1 hundred and 10 fifties at a strike rate of 136.

Daryl Mitchell: Mitchell’s role as a finisher finally paid dividends in the fourth match, where he struck an unbeaten 39 off 18 balls. His adaptability makes him a valuable middle order option. He has 1,773 runs in 94 T20Is with 8 fifties at a strike rate near 140.

Mitchell Santner (c): Santner delivered an outstanding all round performance in the previous match, picking up three wickets and contributing with the bat. His leadership and control with the ball have been central to New Zealand’s resurgence. He has 953 runs and 134 wickets in 126 T20Is.

Jacob Duffy: Duffy continued his impressive form with the ball, striking crucial breakthroughs and maintaining discipline. He has 57 wickets in 42 T20Is.

Zak Foulkes: Foulkes returned to the side with a wicket and a useful cameo with the bat, adding depth to New Zealand’s lineup. He has 19 wickets in 19 T20Is.

Matt Henry: Henry once again struck with the first ball, providing early momentum to New Zealand’s bowling attack. He has 43 wickets in 33 T20Is.

Ish Sodhi: Sodhi picked up two wickets but remained expensive, reflecting his aggressive wicket taking style. He has 162 wickets in 136 T20Is.

Top Batters for Dream11

Suryakumar Yadav remains one of the most reliable fantasy picks due to his consistency and ability to score at a rapid pace. Abhishek Sharma’s explosive style makes him a high impact option, while Rinku Singh’s stability in the middle order adds value. From New Zealand, Tim Seifert and Devon Conway are strong picks given their recent form and roles at the top of the order. Their ability to exploit the powerplay could prove decisive in fantasy contests.

Best All Rounders to Boost Points

Mitchell Santner continues to offer consistent fantasy returns with both bat and ball, making him a premium selection. Glenn Phillips adds value through explosive batting and occasional bowling. Hardik Pandya remains a key all round option for India, while Shivam Dube’s recent form enhances his fantasy appeal. Together, these players provide multiple avenues for scoring points.

Bowlers to Watch in Dream11

Jasprit Bumrah remains a crucial wicket taking option despite his off day in the previous match. Ravi Bishnoi’s ability to strike in the middle overs makes him a valuable fantasy pick. From New Zealand, Ish Sodhi and Jacob Duffy are expected to play important roles, particularly if the pitch offers assistance to bowlers. Their ability to deliver breakthroughs at crucial moments could swing fantasy outcomes.

Captain and Vice Captain Picks

Suryakumar Yadav stands out as a strong captaincy option due to his form and influence in the middle order. Rachin Ravindra and Mitchell Santner offer balanced vice captain choices given their all round capabilities. Santner and Glenn Phillips also emerge as reliable alternatives for leadership roles in fantasy teams, given their consistent contributions across departments.

Pitch Report and Venue Conditions

The fifth T20I will be played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The pitch is known to favor bowlers, particularly in the early overs where pacers can extract movement and bounce. As the match progresses, spinners often find grip on the slow surface, making run scoring challenging in the middle overs.

Historically, the venue has hosted seven T20I matches, with an average first innings score of around 155. Teams batting first have won four matches, while chasing sides have won three. The highest total at the venue is India’s 235 for 4 against Australia, while the highest successful chase is West Indies’ 173 for 2 against India. Dew may play a limited role, but overall conditions are expected to test batting lineups and reward disciplined bowling.

Match Prediction: Who Has the Upper Hand?

India enter the final T20I with confidence and momentum after winning three of the first four matches. Their batting depth, bowling variety, and familiarity with conditions give them a clear advantage. While New Zealand showed resilience in the previous match, India’s overall consistency throughout the series makes them favorites once again. If India execute their plans effectively, they are likely to finish the series on a high and reaffirm their dominance.

FAQs About IND vs NZ Playing XI

Who are the key players in the IND vs NZ clash?

Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, Mitchell Santner, and Tim Seifert are expected to play decisive roles in the final T20I.

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