IND vs NZ Match Analysis
The 5th T20I at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, serves as a decisive late-series clash, played under lights on a surface known for tactical nuance rather than batting excess, with both teams keen to assert momentum before the tour concludes.
India enter this contest with a strong recent record despite the heavy 50-run defeat in Visakhapatnam, where a failed chase of 216 exposed middle-order fragility and a lack of composure against spin, forcing IND to rethink tempo control and bowling execution under pressure.
New Zealand, meanwhile, arrive buoyed by that commanding win, driven by Tim Seifert’s explosive 62 and Mitchell Santner’s all-round authority, showcasing a side comfortable absorbing pressure, exploiting match-ups, and executing plans with clarity across all phases.
Also Read More: India vs New Zealand | 5th T20I | IND vs NZ | Jan 31 on Jeetbuzz News
India vs New Zealand Match Details
Match | India vs New Zealand | 5th T20I | New Zealand tour of India 2026 |
Date | 31/01/2026 (Saturday) |
Time | BDT 7:30 PM / PKT 6:30 PM / INR 7:00 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram |
Recent performance | India – W W W W L |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the IND vs NZ Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram Pitch Report
Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram
The Greenfield pitch traditionally rewards disciplined bowling, offering early seam movement and bounce before slowing down, bringing spinners into play during the middle overs. Stroke-making requires patience, and teams that manage pace variations and rotate strike efficiently generally gain the upper hand, especially when defending totals under lights.
Weather Report
Warm coastal conditions are expected with stable temperatures, ensuring uninterrupted play. While humidity may rise in the second innings, dew is unlikely to be excessive, keeping the contest balanced and placing greater emphasis on skill rather than external conditions influencing bowling control.
IND vs NZ Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 29 |
IND Won | 15 |
NZ Won | 11 |
Tied | 3 |
No Result | 0 |
First-ever Fixture | September 16, 2007 |
Most-recent Fixture | January 28, 2026 |
India vs New Zealand Team Preview & Squads
India
Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership remains central to India’s approach, blending aggressive intent with tactical flexibility. After the Visakhapatnam loss, his role extends beyond batting impact to stabilizing a side that must respond decisively to scoreboard pressure and avoid reactive decision-making.
India’s batting structure leans on controlled power rather than all-out aggression. Shivam Dube and Abhishek Sharma are crucial in shaping the innings, while Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, and Rinku Singh must bridge phases efficiently to prevent collapses against spin-heavy middle overs.
The bowling unit remains India’s strategic backbone. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh control tempo upfront and at the death, while Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy provide wicket-taking options as the pitch slows. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel add vital balance and matchup flexibility.
India Squad
India Squad
Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Shivam Dube, Harshit Rana, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravi Bishnoi, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy
New Zealand
Mitchell Santner’s captaincy continues to define New Zealand’s calm, process-driven identity. His dual role allows NZ to dictate match rhythm, particularly on surfaces where patience and tactical bowling trump raw pace.
The batting unit is built around calculated aggression. Tim Seifert sets the tone in the powerplay, while Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Glenn Phillips provide adaptability across conditions. Phillips’ finishing power offers New Zealand a decisive edge in high-scoring scenarios.
Bowling remains New Zealand’s strongest suit. Santner’s control through the middle overs, supported by Ish Sodhi, contrasts effectively with the pace battery of Ferguson, Henry, and Jamieson. This layered attack thrives on surfaces that reward discipline and variation.
New Zealand Squad
New Zealand Squad
Mitchell Santner, Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
IND vs NZ Prediction
Event | India | New Zealand |
Toss Winner | India | – |
Player of the Match | Abhishek Sharma | – |
Top Run Scorer | Abhishek Sharma | Glenn Phillips |
Top Wicket Taker | Jasprit Bumrah | Mitchell Santner |
Most Sixes | Abhishek Sharma | Glenn Phillips |
Predicted Score | 210+ | 200+ |
Win Probability | 51% | 49% |
India vs New Zealand Winning Prediction
India are likely to approach this match with controlled aggression, aiming to correct their chasing inefficiencies by setting or pacing an innings more intelligently, while New Zealand will seek to replicate their Visakhapatnam blueprint by applying spin pressure and forcing IND into premature risks during the middle overs.
According to the above cricket analytical data, India have a 51% chance of winning.
FAQ: New Zealand tour of India 2026 5th T20I
Who is the captain of India in the 5th T20I against New Zealand?
Suryakumar Yadav is leading India in this match.
Where is the IND vs NZ 5th T20I being played?
The match is scheduled at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram.
Where can fans watch the live stream of the 5th T20I?
The match will be streamed live on Sports Live Hub (SLH).
Disclaimer: The insights and analysis in this cricket prediction are based on the author’s perspective. Readers are encouraged to consider the points shared and form their own opinions.
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