New Zealand v India 5th T20 Tips, Predictions and Preview

Gary Emmerson:

What is it with New Zealand and Super Overs? Another loss via Super Over made it 4-0 in the five-match T20I series against India and the prospect of getting whitewashed looms at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Sunday.

India will once again look to experiment as they build towards finalising their World Cup squad. That should give enough leeway for the hosts to mount a comeback, but with captain Kane Williamson doubtful and a shattered morale, the Kiwis do not present a confident outlook.

Prediction

Match Preview

The series may have been all negative for the Kiwis, but their batsmen have really stepped up the plate. Colin Munro (163 runs, SR 125.38) has been leading their charge, while they await news on Williamson’s availability. The elevation of Tim Seifert worked perfectly (57 off 39, 4×4 3×6) at Wellington and could once again prove beneficial.

Ish Sodhi was brilliant at Wellington and has bagged six wickets in the series. Hamish Bennett has been excellent in taking wickets, but his ER remains on the higher side (five wickets, ER 10.66).

India made three changes to their side at Wellington, but still went on to put a stellar show. KL Rahul (179 runs, SR 146.72) remains their lynchpin with the bat, but he might be left out just to check out how Rishabh Pant will play. There is also a chance of Virat Kohli being rested and Rohit Sharma brought back into the playing XI.

Shardul Thakur (six wickets, ER 9.91) won the game or India with an excellent last over at Wellington, but his economy remains a huge concern. Jasprit Bumrah looked to found his mojo back, but it remains to be seen if he gets to play the final T20I.

Match Up

India showed great heart and character to not just win the series, but also win in style. Even in the two Super Over wins, India have overcome poor performances in the field, having let some easy chances off. It will be interesting to see if the experimentations continue. As for New Zealand, the chance to earn something from the series is a reality – especially with the ODI and Test series lined up later in the tour.

History & Statistics

  • New Zealand have won four of the five completed T20Is at this venue, but have lost the most recent.
  • The team batting first has won all five completed T20Is at this venue.
  • India are unbeaten in seven overseas T20Is, winning five and tying two.
  • The chasing side has won nine of the last 13 overseas completed T20Is.

Key Players

Ish Sodhi looked great with the ball at Wellington, enjoying the extra bounce perfectly. He will look to trouble the Indians once again with his control.

Shardul Thakur has pulled up a great final over to lead India to Super Over, but that shouldn’t hide the fact that he struggles for control. Can he improve his stats and get some control to his game?