India Predicted XI For 5th T20I vs New Zealand: Kishan at 3, Spinners Dominate

India are expected to make several changes to their playing XI for the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand as they look to conclude the series on a positive note at the Greenfield International Stadium on Saturday. With the five-match series already sealed 3-1, the hosts are likely to use the game as a final tune-up ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

India dominated the first three matches to secure an unassailable lead before suffering a comprehensive 50-run defeat in the fourth T20I. In that match, New Zealand posted a challenging 215 for 7, powered by an explosive half-century from Tim Seifert and solid contributions from Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell. India’s chase faltered despite a destructive knock from Shivam Dube, as the rest of the batting line-up failed to build partnerships.

With the World Cup approaching, the team management is expected to prioritize players who are likely to be part of the main tournament squad. Sanju Samson, who has managed just 40 runs in four matches, will be under focus as he opens the innings in front of his home crowd. He is set to partner with the in-form Abhishek Sharma, making the match an important opportunity for Samson to regain confidence.

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Ishan Kishan is tipped to return to the XI and bat at No. 3, while captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to slot back into his preferred No. 4 position. Shivam Dube’s role as a power hitter and a secondary bowling option remains crucial, while Rinku Singh is likely to continue in the middle order to provide finishing firepower.

In the bowling department, Axar Patel is expected to make a comeback after recovering from a finger injury sustained in the series opener. The spin attack is likely to feature Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav, with Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh leading the pace unit. All-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to be rested after featuring in the first four matches.

India’s Predicted XI: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.

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