IND vs NZ 5th T20I: India win toss, choose to bat; three changes as Axar and Ishan return

India and New Zealand face off in the final T20I before the upcoming T20 World Cup, with both teams making key changes for the decider in Thiruvananthapuram.

What happened: India won the toss in the 5th T20I in Thiruvananthapuram and opted to bat first.

Why it matters now: This is the last T20I for both sides before the T20 World Cup squad discussions begin.

What changes for people: India made three changes, bringing back Axar Patel and Ishan Kishan, while New Zealand added Samson to their XI.

Who is affected: Team India’s middle order, bowling combinations and New Zealand’s match strategy for the series finale.

India aim to finish the series on a high

The final match of the India–New Zealand T20I series is underway at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, with India already leading 3-1.

Skipper Suryakumar Yadav chose to bat first, signalling India’s intent to push for a big total and test their finishing resources ahead of a busy cricketing calendar.

For New Zealand, the clash is a chance to salvage pride and evaluate their squad depth before international commitments resume.

Last T20I before World Cup preparations shift gear

With the T20 World Cup approaching, this fixture holds extra significance.

Both teams view this as their final opportunity to test:

Opening pairs

Power-play strategies

Bowling combinations

Middle-order flexibility

India made three key changes, including the returns of Axar Patel and Ishan Kishan, strengthening their spin and top-order options.

New Zealand, meanwhile, included Samson, hoping his experience can stabilize their middle order.