India captain Suryakumar Yadav has put an end to speculation surrounding India’s No. 3 batting position ahead of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Nagpur, Suryakumar confirmed that Ishan Kishan will bat at number three in the opening encounter, which takes place on Wednesday.
The announcement comes amid debates over whether Shreyas Iyer, returning to the squad after a 25-month absence, would slot back into the role. However, the Indian captain made it clear that the team management has a defined plan in place.
Suryakumar Yadav explains Team India’s no. 3 strategy
Addressing the media, Suryakumar Yadav said that Ishan is firmly part of India’s long-term planning for the 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 opportunities,” Suryakumar said. He also highlighted Kishan’s recent consistency in domestic cricket as a key factor behind the decision.
With the T20 World Cup less than a month away, India appear 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 generated 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 need to wait for his opportunity as India prioritize stability ahead of a packed international calendar.
The move reflects India’s emphasis on role clarity rather than reputation, especially in the shortest format where momentum and adaptability are crucial.
Ishan Kishan’s T20I record at No. 3
Ishan has batted at number three in four T20 Internationals so far, scoring 114 runs, including two half-centuries. While his average of 28.50 in that position seems ordinary, the team believes his attacking style and ability to counter spin make him a strong option in the middle overs.
Overall, Kishan has played 32 T20Is since making his debut against England in March 2023, accumulating 796 runs at an average of 25.67 with six half-centuries. His last appearance in the format came against Australia in November 2023.
One of the biggest reasons behind Ishan’s selection at No. 3 is his outstanding recent form in domestic cricket. Representing Jharkhand in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, Kishan emerged as the tournament’s leading run-scorer.
He amassed 517 runs in just 10 matches at an exceptional average of 57.44 and a blistering strike rate of 197.32. His tally included two centuries and two half-centuries, playing a pivotal role in guiding Jharkhand to the title.
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India look ahead to crucial T20I series against New Zealand
As India prepare to face New Zealand in Nagpur, the clarity around the No. 3 position offers stability to the batting order. With Ishan 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.
For Shreyas, patience may be required, while for Ishan, the spotlight is firmly on delivering at the international level once again.
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