Overview:
Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Glenn Phillips are expected to play decisive roles in the fourth T20I.
India and New Zealand head into the fourth T20I of the five match series on Wednesday, January 28, with India firmly in control after taking an unassailable 3 -0 lead. The series has largely been one sided, with India dominating with both bat and ball, while New Zealand have struggled to match intensity and execution.
With the series already sealed, the remaining two matches present contrasting objectives for the two teams. India are expected to experiment with combinations, assess bench strength, and fine tune roles, while New Zealand will play for pride and look to salvage momentum. The fourth T20I at the Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam offers another opportunity for India to extend their dominance and for New Zealand to restore some competitive balance.
The third T20I in Guwahati underlined the gulf between the sides. India chased down a modest target in record time, powered by explosive batting and clinical bowling. As the series moves to Visakhapatnam, the spotlight will remain on India’s attacking depth and New Zealand’s quest for redemption.
What is the Context of this Match?
India defeated New Zealand by 8 wickets in the third T20I on January 25, 2026, at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, securing a 3 -0 lead in the series. New Zealand, after being asked to bat first, posted 153 for 9 in 20 overs, with Glenn Phillips top scoring with 48 off 40 balls. India’s bowlers kept the scoring in check, with Ravi Bishnoi, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah delivering decisive spells.
In the chase, India dismantled the target in just 10 overs, finishing at 155 for 2. Abhishek Sharma produced a breathtaking 68 off 20 balls, including a 14 ball fifty, while Suryakumar Yadav added an unbeaten 57 off 26. Ishan Kishan provided early momentum with a brisk cameo. The result highlighted India’s superiority in both batting depth and bowling control, leaving New Zealand searching for answers ahead of the final two matches.
India Probable XI against New Zealand for the 4th T20I
Abhishek Sharma: Abhishek once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the most destructive batters in T20 cricket. His 68 off 20 balls in the third T20I was a display of fearless strokeplay and impeccable timing. His ability to dominate bowlers in the powerplay makes him a constant threat. He has 1,267 runs in 37 T20Is with 2 hundreds and 8 fifties at a strike rate of 190.
Sanju Samson (wk): Samson has endured a difficult series so far, registering scores of 10, 6, and 0. Despite the pressure, India are likely to continue backing him, given his talent and experience. His ability to change games remains unquestionable, and Visakhapatnam could offer him a fresh opportunity. He has 1,048 runs in 55 T20Is with 3 hundreds and 3 fifties at a strike rate close to 150.
Ishan Kishan: Kishan has been one of India’s most impactful batters in the series. His match winning 76 off 32 in the second T20I and a rapid 28 off 13 in the third match highlighted his ability to accelerate at crucial moments. His aggressive approach in the middle order adds a dangerous dimension to India’s batting. He has 908 runs in 35 T20Is with 7 fifties.
Suryakumar Yadav (c): Suryakumar has peaked at the right time for India, rediscovering his rhythm and dominance. His unbeaten 57 off 26 balls in the third T20I showcased his ability to control tempo and dismantle bowling attacks. As captain, his leadership and intent have been central to India’s success. He has 2,959 runs in 102 T20Is with 4 hundreds and 23 fifties at a strike rate of 163.
Shivam Dube: Dube had limited involvement in the third match but continues to be a valuable asset in India’s middle order. His ability to target spinners and contribute with the ball makes him a versatile option. He has 684 runs in 53 T20Is at a strike rate of 140, along with 26 wickets.
Hardik Pandya: Pandya’s influence has been felt across departments in the series. His athletic catch to dismiss Conway and his two wicket spell in the previous match underlined his all round impact. He remains India’s most reliable all rounder in the format. He has 2,027 runs in 127 T20Is with 7 fifties at a strike rate above 140, along with 105 wickets.
Rinku Singh: Rinku had little to do in the third T20I due to India’s rapid chase, but his contributions in earlier matches reinforced his reputation as a dependable finisher. His composure under pressure remains a key strength. He has 594 runs in 38 T20Is at a strike rate of 165 with 3 fifties.
Harshit Rana: Rana has emerged as a significant threat in the series, repeatedly troubling New Zealand’s top order. His ability to strike early has been crucial for India. He has 9 wickets in 8 T20Is.
Kuldeep Yadav: Kuldeep went wicketless in the third T20I, raising concerns about his form. However, his experience and variations still make him a vital option in the middle overs. He has 91 wickets in 52 T20Is.
Jasprit Bumrah: Bumrah’s return to the side was impactful, as he finished with figures of 3 for 17. His control, precision, and experience continue to make him India’s most valuable bowler. He has 106 wickets in 85 T20Is.
Ravi Bishnoi: Bishnoi impressed in his comeback match with two wickets and sharp fielding. His leg spin provides India with another wicket taking option. He has 63 wickets in 43 T20Is.
New Zealand Probable XI against India for 4th T20I
Tim Seifert: Seifert has struggled to convert starts in the series, failing to provide consistent momentum at the top. His inability to build innings has hurt New Zealand’s batting structure. He has 1,886 runs in 79 T20Is with 12 fifties at a strike rate of 140.
Devon Conway: Conway’s series has been disappointing, with another low score in the third T20I. Despite his talent, he has failed to adapt to conditions in India. He has 1,695 runs in 65 T20Is with 8 fifties.
Rachin Ravindra: Ravindra has shown flashes of brilliance but has lacked consistency. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an important player, but New Zealand need greater impact from him. He has 598 runs in 41 T20Is with 3 fifties at a strike rate of 135, along with 14 wickets.
Glenn Phillips: Phillips has been the standout performer for New Zealand in the series. His 48 in the third T20I once again highlighted his ability to fight under pressure. He has 2,074 runs in 86 T20Is with 2 hundreds and 11 fifties, along with 6 wickets.
Mark Chapman: Chapman has struggled with consistency, producing promising starts without converting them into substantial innings. He remains a key middle order option. He has 1,971 runs in 103 T20Is with 1 hundred and 10 fifties at a strike rate of 136.
Daryl Mitchell: Mitchell has failed to replicate his ODI form in the T20I series. His inability to accelerate has been a major concern for New Zealand. He has 1,734 runs in 93 T20Is with 8 fifties at a strike rate near 140.
Mitchell Santner (c): Santner has led the side with composure despite difficult circumstances. His contributions with bat and ball have provided balance, even as the team struggled collectively. He has 942 runs and 131 wickets in 125 T20Is.
Jacob Duffy: Duffy has been New Zealand’s most economical bowler in the series but has lacked support from the other bowlers. He has 55 wickets in 41 T20Is.
Kyle Jamieson: Jamieson’s return has not produced the desired impact. His bounce remains an asset, but he has struggled to control the scoring rate. He has 23 wickets in 24 T20Is.
Matt Henry: Henry started strongly in the third match with a wicket but failed to maintain pressure. His experience makes him a crucial part of New Zealand’s pace attack. He has 42 wickets in 32 T20Is.
Ish Sodhi: Sodhi continues to be part of New Zealand’s plans, offering leg spin options in the middle overs. He has 160 wickets in 135 T20Is.
Top Batters for Dream11
Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan remain the most reliable fantasy batting options for India. Their aggressive roles and current form make them high value selections. From New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra stands out as a potential differential pick, given his ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game.
Best All Rounders to Boost Points
Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips remain New Zealand’s most impactful all round options, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube provide India with strong fantasy value. Their involvement in both batting and bowling phases increases their points potential.
Bowlers to Watch in Dream11
Ravi Bishnoi and Jasprit Bumrah are key wicket taking options for India, capable of striking at crucial moments. From New Zealand, Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy remain potential wicket takers, especially with the new ball.
Captain and Vice Captain Picks
Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan are strong captaincy choices due to their recent form and aggressive roles. Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips offer reliable vice captain options due to their all round contributions and match impact.
Pitch Report and Venue Conditions
The fourth T20I will be played at the Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. The surface is generally batting friendly, with good bounce and pace in the early overs. As the match progresses, spinners can find assistance, while the fast outfield encourages high scoring encounters. Dew could play a role in the second innings, making chasing slightly easier. Weather conditions are expected to remain clear, ensuring uninterrupted play.
Match Prediction: Who Has the Upper Hand?
India enter the fourth T20I with complete control over the series. Their batting depth, bowling variety, and confidence give them a clear advantage over New Zealand. While New Zealand have the potential to bounce back, India’s consistency and dominance make them favorites once again. On current form and conditions, India appear better placed to extend their winning run.
FAQs About IND vs NZ Playing XI
Who are the key players in the IND vs NZ clash?
Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Glenn Phillips are expected to play decisive roles in the fourth T20I.