India will aim to build an unassailable lead in the five-match T20I series against New Zealand in the third match at Wellington.
However, the Men in Blue will face a few dilemmas as they look to run towards another win. Wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the match in Wellington as a precautionary step while he recovers from a right adductor injury.
Young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will hold on to his spot in the playing XI. Weather and bowling concerns will provide plenty to talk about in the match.
Ishan Kishan Ruled Out, Sooryavanshi Holds On
Kishan was struck with a mild strain to his right adductor in the first T20I of the series and although his recovery is going well, he has not yet recovered fully enough to play in the match.
As such, he has been ruled out of the Wellington match as a precautionary step. Wicketkeeper Kumar Kushagra will remain with the squad. Sooryavanshi will hold onto his spot in the playing XI and is likely to bat at No.3.
The youngster will get another chance to contribute.
New Zealand Will Change Their XI
New Zealand are likely to change their playing XI as both Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson are missing from the third T20I.
Henry will miss the rest of the series as his workload is managed while he prepares for ODI and Test matches against India. Ferguson will also sit out the Wellington match.
New Zealand’s bowlers have struggled to stop India scoring in the opening two matches and conceded 27 extras. They will have to be more disciplined and controlled if they are to stop India building up a commanding lead in the series.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be eager to put in a better performance after giving up over ten runs per over in both of the first two matches.
Weather and Wind Conditions in Wellington
The weather in Wellington can play a huge role in the match. The windy conditions often affect how players play the game.
There was rain in the morning but it cleared before they started their preparations. This gives hope they will play the full 40 overs. Both sides will have to adjust to the conditions.
The bowlers will have to be disciplined and be able to read the shots in the air. A win for India will give them the series with two games left to play. New Zealand will be under pressure to respond after the first two games.
The selection, bowling and handling of Wellington conditions may be key in deciding who wins the third T20I.