The IND vs NZ 4th T20I arrives at an interesting point in the series. India have already sealed the contest, but the match in Visakhapatnam is far from meaningless. With the T20 World Cup drawing closer, every performance now carries weight. Team combinations, individual form, and tactical balance are all under scrutiny, making the IND vs NZ 4th T20I a crucial examination rather than a routine fixture.
This match is especially significant because it revolves around one of India’s most debated selection questions: Sanju Samson or Ishan Kishan. While the scoreboard says the series is done, the larger narrative is very much alive.
Big Picture: Samson vs Kishan – A Battle Beyond the Series
When India announced their T20 World Cup squad, Ishan Kishan was considered a backup option for Sanju Samson. Kishan had not played a T20I since 2023, and his selection appeared to be more about squad depth than immediate intent. At that stage, Samson seemed firmly ahead in the pecking order.
However, circumstances changed quickly. An unfortunate injury to Tilak Varma created a sudden opening at No. 3, and Kishan grabbed the opportunity with both hands. His explosive 76 off just 32 balls in the second T20I completely shifted the momentum of the debate. He followed it up with a rapid 28 off 13 balls in the third game, reinforcing his case as a high-impact batter.
In contrast, Samson has struggled to make a mark so far, registering scores of 10, 6, and 0 in the first three matches. This contrast has made the IND vs NZ 4th T20I a defining moment for both players. For Kishan, it is about cementing his place. For Samson, it is about survival at the highest level.
A Lifeline for Samson Before It’s Too Late
While Tilak Varma’s injury opened the door for Kishan, the delay in Tilak’s recovery has given Samson a lifeline. After preparing for a middle-order role, Samson has returned to the opening slot, where he feels most comfortable. The team management is expected to give him at least one more opportunity, possibly two, to justify their faith.
That makes the IND vs NZ 4th T20I extremely important for Samson. A strong performance could revive his campaign and keep the competition alive. Another failure, however, could tilt the balance decisively in Kishan’s favor ahead of the final match and future selections.
Form Guide: Momentum Favors India
India enter the IND vs NZ 4th T20I in unstoppable form, having won their last five completed T20Is. Their batting depth, aggressive intent, and improved bowling combinations have made them dominant throughout the series.
New Zealand, on the other hand, have had mixed results. While they have managed a couple of wins recently, three consecutive losses earlier exposed their lack of consistency, largely due to the absence of several first-choice players.
In the Spotlight: Abhishek Sharma and Lockie Ferguson
Abhishek Sharma has been one of the biggest revelations of this series. Since the start of 2025, he has scored 1011 runs in T20Is at an average of 45.95 and an astonishing strike rate of 202.20. In 24 innings during this period, he has crossed fifty eight times, with his slowest half-century coming off just 25 balls.
What makes India even more dangerous is that they are not dependent on one individual. In the second T20I, when Abhishek was dismissed for a first-ball duck, India still chased down 209 in just 15.2 overs, thanks to Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav.
For New Zealand, the IND vs NZ 4th T20I marks an important phase in Lockie Ferguson’s comeback. Returning from a calf injury sustained during the ILT20, Ferguson has not played international cricket since November 2024. With the Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup in mind, his rhythm and fitness will be closely monitored.
Team News and Probable Playing XIs
India are likely to continue their rotation policy to manage workloads. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravi Bishnoi could be rested, with Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy returning to the XI.
India (Probable XI):
Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy
New Zealand will be strengthened by the return of James Neesham and Lockie Ferguson, replacing Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy.
New Zealand (Probable XI):
Tim Seifert (wk), Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (capt), Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi
Key Comparison Table: Samson vs Kishan in the Series
| Player | Matches Played | Runs Scored | Highest Score | Impact Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanju Samson | 3 | 16 | 10 | Under pressure |
| Ishan Kishan | 2 | 104 | 76 | Match-winning |
This table highlights why the IND vs NZ 4th T20I is so critical in shaping India’s batting future.
Pitch and Conditions: Another High-Scoring Contest
Visakhapatnam has traditionally been a batting-friendly venue. The last T20I hosted here saw India chase down 209 against Australia in 2023. Similar conditions are expected for the IND vs NZ 4th T20I, with a flat pitch, even bounce, and short boundaries. Dew is unlikely to play a major role, but bowlers will need clever variations to stay competitive.
Stats and Records to Watch
Several milestones could be achieved during the IND vs NZ 4th T20I. Ish Sodhi is just five wickets away from becoming New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is. Suryakumar Yadav needs only 41 runs to reach 3000 T20I runs, joining an elite Indian club featuring Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Mark Chapman is also closing in on 2000 career T20I runs.
READ MORE:
- Top 5 Best T20I Bowling Figures India vs New Zealand: Incredible Spells
- Top 5 Quickest Team 50s for India in T20Is: Explosive Records- e2bdt
FAQ
Why is the IND vs NZ 4th T20I important if the series is already decided?
Because it plays a major role in finalizing team combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Who has the advantage in the Samson vs Kishan debate?
Based on current form, Ishan Kishan holds the edge.
Will Lockie Ferguson play the IND vs NZ 4th T20I?
Yes, he is expected to return directly to the playing XI.
Is Visakhapatnam a good venue for batters?
Yes, it is known for high-scoring T20 matches.
Which milestone is most likely in the IND vs NZ 4th T20I?
Suryakumar Yadav reaching 3000 T20I runs is a major possibility.