Ishan Kishan IN, Shivam Dube OUT, India’s probable playing 11 for Nagpur
India’s Probable Playing 11: After a stinging 2-1 defeat in the ODI series, the action shifts to the VCA Stadium in Nagpur this Wednesday. For Suryakumar Yadav and his men, this isn’t just another five-match series; it’s the final dress rehearsal before the 2026 T20 World Cup kicks off in February. With the pressure mounting and a few key injuries shaking up the squad, the playing XI for the series opener is under the microscope.
Abhishek-Samson to open
With Shubman Gill notably absent from the T20 setup, the opening slot alongside the explosive Abhishek Sharma is practically a lock for Sanju Samson. This ‘Left-Right’ combination is what dreams are made of for T20 purists. Abhishek has been the world’s top-ranked T20I batter recently, and his license to thrill from ball one allows Samson the freedom to find his rhythm before teeing off.
Ishan Kishan gets the nod at no.3
The biggest talking point heading into Nagpur was who would replace the injured Tilak Varma. In his pre-match press conference, skipper Suryakumar Yadav let the cat out of the bag: Ishan Kishan will bat at number three. While Shreyas Iyer was brought in as injury cover, Surya was clear that since Kishan is a primary member of the World Cup squad, he deserves the first go. It’s a massive opportunity for the left-hander to cement his spot after a long hiatus from the national side.
Strong middle-order
The middle order looks incredibly robust with the return of the ‘usual suspects.’ Suryakumar Yadav will likely slot in at No. 4, looking to translate his captaincy success into big runs. Following him are the twin engines of India’s finish Hardik Pandya and Rinku Singh. Hardik returns after a well-earned rest, and his dual role as the third seamer and a power-hitter remains the team’s most vital asset. Rinku, the designated finisher, will be expected to provide the late-innings fireworks that have become his trademark.
The Spin-Trio
Nagpur often offers a bit of grip, which makes India’s spin department look terrifying on paper. Varun Chakravarthy, the current World No. 1 T20 bowler, will lead the attack. He’ll be supported by the vice-captain Axar Patel, who provides that crucial lower-order batting depth. The big question remains whether India fits in Kuldeep Yadav as well. Given the need for wickets in the middle overs, a ‘Kul-Cha’ style pairing with Varun and Kuldeep might be too tempting to pass up, likely at the expense of an extra pacer or a batting all-rounder like Shivam Dube.
Jasprit Bumrah to lead the bowling pack
Leading the bowling attack is none other than Jasprit Bumrah. His return after being rested for the ODIs instantly makes India favorites. Partnering him will be Arshdeep Singh, whose ability to swing the ball early and nail yorkers at the death is essential. If the pitch looks like it has something for the quicks, we might see the fiery Harshit Rana make the cut, though the team might prioritize spin given the conditions.
India’s probable playing 11
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel (vc), Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.