India made a significant playing XI change for the fourth T20 International against New Zealand on Wednesday, bringing in fast bowler Arshdeep Singh in place of wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan at the ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium. The decision was revealed by Captain Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, where he also confirmed that Kishan was sidelined due to a niggle picked up during the third match of the series.

Suryakumar said the team management opted not to risk Kishan, choosing instead to bolster the bowling attack. The move stood out as India replaced a top-order batter with a specialist pacer, reflecting a tactical shift rather than a like-for-like substitution. With the five-match series already sealed 3–0 in India’s favour, the fourth T20I offered an opportunity to manage workloads and test combinations.

The inclusion of Arshdeep strengthened India’s pace unit, which already featured Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana. The trio formed a potent fast-bowling attack, supported by all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, both of whom provide additional seam options. The combination suggested India’s intent to maximise bowling depth, especially with conditions expected to assist fast bowlers under lights.

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India’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss aligned with their recent strategy in the series. Evening dew in Visakhapatnam was a key factor, and the team has consistently looked to exploit early movement with the ball before relying on batting depth during the chase. The absence of Kishan also opened the door for flexibility in the batting order.

With the series outcome already decided, the fourth T20I carried added importance for squad rotation and fitness assessment ahead of future assignments. While New Zealand looked to avoid a clean sweep, India focused on maintaining intensity and balance, using the match to fine-tune combinations as preparations continue for upcoming international tournaments.

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