India have suffered a double setback ahead of their five-match home T20I series against New Zealandwith Washington Sundar being ruled out of the entire contest and Tilak Varma set to miss the opening three matches. Sundar has been sidelined after scans revealed a side strain, prompting the team management to take a cautious approach with the all-rounder. He has been advised to rest for a few days before reporting to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for further assessment and injury management.

While Tilak’s absence is temporary, with the left-hander expected to return later in the series, Sundar’s unavailability for all five matches comes at a crucial time. The series forms an important part of India’s build-up to the T20 World Cupscheduled to begin in less than a month in India and Sri Lanka.

Star spinner replaces Washington Sundar in India’s squad

To address Sundar’s absence, the selectors have drafted in Ravi Bishnoistrengthening India’s spin resources for the series. Bishnoi last featured in a T20I in January 2025 against England at home and brings considerable experience despite his young age. The leg-spinner has represented India in 42 T20Is so far, claiming 61 wickets with his pace through the air and sharp turn making him a reliable middle-overs option.

With conditions at home expected to aid spinners, Bishnoi’s inclusion provides the team with an attacking alternative alongside established names like Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy.

Shreyas Iyer makes comeback to T20I setup

The selectors have also turned to Shreyas Iyerwho returns to the T20I squad for the first time since December 2023. Shreyas has been included for the first three matches—scheduled on January 21, 23, and 25—as a replacement for Tilak . His last T20I appearance came against Australia in Bengaluru, and his recall reflects his strong form in recent months.

Shreyas enjoyed a prolific IPL 2025 campaign, amassing 604 runs at a striking rate of 175.07, while also leading Punjab Kings to the final. His ability to anchor an innings and accelerate when required adds depth and flexibility to India’s middle order, especially in the absence of Tilak during the early part of the series.

India’s updated T20I squad vs New Zealand

Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vc), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravi Bishnoi.