Ishan Kishan ruled out of third T20I with adductor strain
Ishan Kishan ruled out of third T20I due to adductor strain; Sooryavanshi keeps his place as India leads series 2-0.
Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the third T20I against New Zealand after sustaining a low-grade right adductor strain in the first match. The Board of Control for Cricket in India announced the decision on Monday, confirming that the wicketkeeper-batter has not regained full match fitness. Kumar Kushagra remains in the squad as cover, while Vaibhav Sooryavanshi retains his place in the playing XI.
India leads the five-match series 2-0. The third match is scheduled for Tuesday at Hnry Stadium in Wellington. Sooryavanshi, who moved to number three after struggling for an opening spot, will hope to improve on his four runs scored in the second match.
New Zealand will field without Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson. Kyle Jamieson and Adam Milne are expected to return to the side for the match.
CricHubb Take
Kishan's absence hands Sooryavanshi a longer run in the top three at a time when India are still testing combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup. The decision to rest Henry and Ferguson suggests New Zealand are prioritising the final two matches, which could turn the series into a genuine contest if the hosts win in Wellington.