Shreyas Iyer & Ravi Bishnoi Back in Team India: Iyer Replaces Tilak Varma for First 3 T20Is Against New Zealand

Breaking News: The Indian selection committee has sprung a surprise while announcing the squad for the upcoming 5-match T20I series against New Zealand.

Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi have made a dramatic return to the national side. This series, set to begin in late January 2026, is seen as a crucial preparatory ground for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Shreyas Iyer has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for the injured Tilak Varma. However, he will only be available for the first three matches.

Shreyas Iyer’s T20 Comeback After 2 Years

This selection marks an emotional return for Shreyas Iyer, who last played a T20I for India in December 2023.

Due to persistent back injuries and fluctuating form, Iyer had fallen off the radar in the shortest format. However, his recent fitness recovery and solid performances in domestic cricket have earned him this recall.

The Tilak Varma Factor:

Rising star Tilak Varma is currently nursing an injury. The BCCI medical team has ruled him out for the initial part of the series. The selectors expect Tilak to be match-fit only by the fourth T20I.

• Shreyas Iyer’s Role: He will cover for Tilak in the matches scheduled for January 21, 23, and 25.
• Implication: This is a golden opportunity for Iyer to prove his worth in T20s and stake a claim for the World Cup squad.

Ravi Bishnoi Replaces Washington Sundar

In the bowling department, the selectors have made a tactical switch. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi returns to the fold, replacing all-rounder Washington Sundar.

Bishnoi last featured for India in January 2025 against England. His inclusion suggests India is looking for a wicket-taking option in the middle overs rather than a defensive all-rounder. Bishnoi’s googly will be a key weapon against the New Zealand batters.

India vs New Zealand T20I Schedule

Strategic Move for World Cup 2026

The return of Shreyas Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi aligns with India’s strategy to build a robust bench strength. While youngsters are the future, the experience of players like Iyer is invaluable for high-pressure tournaments.

“Shreyas Iyer adds stability to the middle order, while Ravi Bishnoi brings aggression to the spin department. This series is a litmus test for both.” — Cricket Analyst

Conclusion: High Stakes Series

For Shreyas Iyer, these three matches are a lifeline. He needs to score big to ensure he remains in the conversation once Tilak Varma returns. For Ravi Bishnoi, it is a chance to displace Washington Sundar permanently from the T20 setup.

Fans are eagerly waiting to see if these returning stars can light up the stadium against the Kiwis.

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