Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav He ended speculation about India’s No.3 batting position ahead of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Nagpur, Suryakumar confirmed this Ishan Kishi He will play number three in the opening match on Wednesday.
The announcement comes amid debate over whether to Shreyas IyerReturning to the team after a 25-month break, he would enter the role again. However, the Indian captain made it clear that the team management has a set plan.
Suryakumar Yadav explains Team India’s no. 3 strategies
Addressing the media, Suryakumar Yadav said that Isha is part of India’s long-term plans. ICC T20 World Cup 2026 and deserves a consistent run in the middle order.
“The team management believes that Ishan is the strongest option for number three and he should get the opportunity.” Suryakumar said. He also highlighted Kisha’s recent consistency in domestic cricket as a major factor behind the decision.
With the T20 World Cup less than a month away, India seem keen to back players who fit their aggressive batting philosophy and can adapt to different match situations.
While Shreyas Iyer’s return to the T20I setup has sparked excitement, the decision suggests that the management is not rushing him back into the playing XI. Iyer, who has not featured in a T20I for over two years, will have to wait for his opportunity as India prefers stability ahead of a packed international calendar.
The move reflects India’s emphasis on role clarity over reputation, especially in the shortest format where pace and consistency are essential.
Ishan Kishi’s T20I record is 3rd
Ishan has so far scored 114 runs, including two half-centuries, in his third innings in four T20 Internationals. While his average of 28.50 at the position looks ordinary, the team believes his attacking style and counter-spin ability make him a strong option in the middle innings.
In total, Kishan has played 32 T20Is since his debut against England in March 2023 and has amassed 796 runs at an average of 25.67 with six half-centuries. His last appearance in the format was against Australia in November 2023.
One of the biggest reasons for Isha being picked at No. 3 is his recent form in domestic cricket. Kishan, who represented Jharkhand in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, emerged as the tournament’s leading run-scorer.
He scored 517 runs in just 10 matches at an exceptional average of 57.44 and a strike rate of 197.32. His tally included two centuries and two half-centuries, playing a vital role in Jharkhand’s title win.
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India look forward to an important T20I series against New Zealand
The clarity around the No. 3 position offers stability to the batting order as India prepare to face New Zealand in Nagpur. With Isha being backed by the captain and selectors, the series presents an opportunity for the left-hander to cement his place ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Patience may be required for Shreyas, while for Ishan, the spotlight is once again performing at the international level.
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