India have suffered a blow ahead of the third T20I against New Zealand as star wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of Tuesday's match in Wellington due to an adductor injury. The left-hander, who sits at number one in the ICC T20I batting rankings has been sidelined since he suffered the injury during the first game of the series.

He was also forced to miss the second T20I as India ran away with a thrilling four wicket win in Christchurch to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Kumar Kushagra has travelled with the squad as he continues to recover.

BCCI Injury News

Kishan suffered a mild right adductor injury during the first game of the series and has not recovered enough to play. This means India lack a key left-handed batsman in their line-up.

Since making his return the wicketkeeper batter has been a key player for India, helping them to a successful campaign at the T20 World Cup earlier this year. He is a valuable asset due to his attacking style and ability to quicken the scoring rate.

Who Will Replace Kishan in Wellington?

India tried using teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the three positions during the second match in Christchurch but he scored just four runs. The team will now have to decide what to do.

They could try and give Vaibhav another chance or use another combination. It will depend on what the team want to do.

With India leading in the series, they may want to keep things consistent.

Kishan Takes Centre Stage

Despite not playing in the match, Kishan was talked about after India's exciting win in Christchurch. He was spotted lifting Sanju Samson during celebrations, which was a heartwarming moment.

This was reminiscent of the moment MS Dhoni lifted Ravindra Jadeja after Chennai Super Kings won the 2023 IPL final in dramatic fashion. He hit a six and a boundary off the last two balls.

For now, India will hope Kishan makes a speedy recovery but it gives other batsmen a chance to shine.