With T20 World Cup done and dusted, India and New Zealand will take on each other in the first of three T20Is in Jaipur on Wednesday.
New Zealand recently defeated India in the Super 12 match of the T20I showpiece, which had ended India’s hopes in the campaign. But it will be a different Indian unit under the leadership of the new captain, Rohit Sharma, and new coach Rahul Dravid.
We have got Match Prediction on the basis of current form, head-to-head, stats, and players to watch out for in the upcoming match.
Current form for India: W W W L L
India lost their two opening matches of the T20 World Cup against Pakistan and New Zealand, which made it difficult for them to advance through to the semifinals. However, Team India will look to make a fresh start in their home conditions and would look to avenge their defeat against the Kiwis.
Current form for New Zealand: L W W W W
It will be difficult for New Zealand to straight away play after a heart-breaking World Cup final loss against Australia. However, the Kiwis will look to hit the ground running despite no break after the final match. The Blackcaps are in good form and they will look to come up with a collective effort.
Head to Head: Matches: 17, Won by India: 8, Won by New Zealand: 9, A:1.
It is almost an even battle between these two teams in head-to-head count.
Players to watch out for – Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah will hold the key for the Indian team.
Kane Williamson, Martin Guptil, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Kyle Jamieson, and Devon Conway will be the crucial players for New Zealand.
Match Prediction: India will start as favorites against New Zealand as they will be playing in their own home conditions.