India and New Zealand will lock horns in the third T20 International of the five-match series on January 25 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST and will be broadcast live on the Star Sports network, with live streaming available on JioCinema. With India leading the series 2-0, the contest holds contrasting significance for both teams.

India head into the match with strong momentum after a dominant run chase in the second T20I at Raipur, where they chased down 208 runs in just 15.2 overs. The comprehensive victory underlined India’s batting firepower and depth, making them favourites to clinch the series with another win. The series also serves as a crucial preparatory phase ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.

For New Zealand, the third T20I is a do-or-die encounter. A defeat would hand India an unassailable lead, ending the Blackcaps’ hopes in the series. The visitors will be under pressure to regroup quickly and produce a more disciplined performance, particularly with the ball, after conceding heavily in the previous match.

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The Barsapara Cricket Stadium has witnessed four T20Is so far, offering a balanced contest between bat and ball. Two matches have been won by teams chasing, one by the side batting first, while one game was abandoned. The average first-innings score at the venue stands at 192, with India’s 237/3 against South Africa being the highest total recorded here.

India are expected to largely stick with their winning combination as they aim to seal a 3-0 lead. However, the possible return of Jasprit Bumrah could force a change in the pace attack, while Axar Patel’s fitness may influence the selection of the spin department. New Zealand, meanwhile, could consider bringing in experienced pacers like Lockie Ferguson or Kyle Jamieson to strengthen their bowling attack.

With both teams eyeing different objectives—India seeking dominance and New Zealand fighting for survival—the third T20I promises high intensity and competitive cricket. As the series progresses toward its decisive phase, all eyes will be on Guwahati to see whether India complete the early knockout or New Zealand mount a comeback.

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