North India Statesman
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News India Live, Digital Desk: The last and decisive match of the T20 series being played between India and New Zealand. 1 February 2026 It is scheduled to be played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The biggest discussion in the Indian camp before the match is star wicketkeeper-batsman. Ishaan Kishan Was about fitness. Now the batting coach of Team India Sitanshu Kotak Has clarified the position on his availability.
1. What did the coach say about Ishan Kishan’s fitness?
Ishan Kishan was out of the fourth T20 match played in Visakhapatnam due to ‘niggle’ (mild injury).
Coach’s statement: Sitanshu Kotak said in the press conference, “Ishaan’s chances of playing are very high. He is sweating profusely in the net sessions. However, the final decision will be taken by the team physio only after assessing his fitness, but the signs so far are positive.”
Practice status: According to reports, Ishaan faced spin and fast bowlers for about an hour in the nets, which indicated that he was completely fit.
2. Playing XI equation: Sanju vs Ishan?
Ishan Kishan returns as captain Suryakumar Yadav The ‘headache’ may increase because the team may have to choose between Sanju Samson and Ishaan.
| player | performance in this series | Situation |
|---|---|---|
| Ishaan Kishan | 112 runs in 3 matches (strike rate: 224) | Ready to make a comeback, in great form. |
| sanju samson | Only 40 runs in 4 innings | Bad form, but home ground (Kerala) advantage. |
Possibility: There are also reports that the Indian team may reduce one bowler and give both Ishan and Sanju a chance in the playing eleven, so that the middle order can be tested before the World Cup.
3. Akshar Patel may also return
Vice-captain apart from Ishaan Akshar Patel There has also been an update on his fitness. Akshar, who was out due to a finger injury, was also seen bowling and batting during practice. If he is fit, he can be included in place of rested Hardik Pandya or Shivam Dubey.
Last litmus test before the World Cup
This is India’s last international T20 match before the T20 World Cup 2026. The team management wants to use this match to finalize its ‘best playing eleven’. It is almost certain that Ishan Kishan will play at number 3, which will give the team the aggression of the left-handed batsman.
