CHRISTCHURCH: India captain Shreyas Iyer has backed his team’s ability to adapt to different playing conditions as they prepare for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, beginning on October 22 in Christchurch.
India head into the series after a demanding international schedule that has taken them across several countries and included a closely contested home T20I series against the West Indies, which ended 2-2 on October 17.
With little time to recover between assignments, the visitors now face another challenge in New Zealand, where conditions and pace-friendly pitches could test their adaptability. However, Iyer believes the team’s experience of playing in different environments will help them prepare effectively.
Having previously played in New Zealand, the Indian captain said the team would focus on assessing the conditions at each venue rather than making assumptions before taking the field.
“I’ve also been here before, and it’s not like the conditions are completely different,” Iyer said during the pre-match press conference in Christchurch.
He added that the nature of the pitch could vary from one match to another, making the initial assessment and preparation sessions particularly important.
The captain also acknowledged the demands of India’s packed schedule but insisted that the players were becoming increasingly accustomed to frequent travel and changes in conditions.
“We have been playing so continuously, from Japan to India, from India to New Zealand. Continuously, we are used to it now, in a way,” Iyer said.
He added that although the schedule had affected the players’ sleep, regular match exposure could prove beneficial as they continued to develop their game.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Return Adds Experience
One of the key talking points ahead of the series is the return of experienced seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar to India’s T20I setup.
Bhuvneshwar last represented India in the format in November 2022 and brings considerable experience, particularly with the new ball, where his ability to generate swing has made him a valuable option throughout his career.
Iyer welcomed the experienced bowler’s presence, pointing out that India had introduced several new bowlers following the Indian Premier League.
“Bhuvi brings a lot of experience to the team. And we were lacking that a little, especially after IPL, we had a lot of new bowlers,” the captain said.
Iyer also highlighted Bhuvneshwar’s recent success in the IPL and his understanding of the tactical demands of T20 cricket, suggesting that his experience could prove important for the bowling unit.
Iyer Emphasises Flexibility in Batting Order
India’s depth in batting has provided the team with several selection options, but it also means players must remain prepared to adjust their roles according to match situations.
Iyer, who has batted at different positions, including No. 3, No. 4 and No. 5 in recent months, said he was comfortable adapting to whatever role the team required.
“I can bat at any number; it depends upon the situation, what is the situation of the game in that position,” he said.
He stressed that flexibility was essential in international cricket, where pitch conditions and match circumstances could demand changes to the batting order.
The captain also described the competition for places within the squad as a positive, arguing that having quality alternatives available would encourage players to maintain consistent performances.
According to Iyer, the priority remains winning matches rather than individual preferences or fixed batting positions.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to Gain Valuable Experience
Young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is another player attracting attention ahead of the series, although opportunities at the top of the order could depend on the performances and availability of India’s established openers.
Iyer urged patience regarding the youngster’s international opportunities, emphasising that exposure to overseas conditions could help him prepare for the future.
“He is very young and he has more years to get the opportunity,” Iyer said.
The captain noted that India’s existing opening options had performed consistently and that Sooryavanshi could benefit from observing how international batters approach different conditions.
Time spent with the squad in New Zealand could therefore provide the young batter with valuable experience, even as he awaits his opportunity to make an impact.
India Ready for New Zealand Challenge
New Zealand’s familiarity with their home conditions could give the hosts an advantage, particularly on surfaces that offer assistance to fast bowlers. However, Iyer believes the outcome will ultimately depend on which team executes its plans better on match day.
The series brings together India and New Zealand, the finalists of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, adding further significance to the five-match contest.
“On a given day, competition is equal. And when you step onto the field, you only want to win. So, whoever plays the best cricket is going to win,” Iyer said.
India will look to translate their experience and squad depth into consistent performances as they begin their New Zealand campaign, with adaptability, bowling experience and flexibility in the batting order likely to be key factors throughout the series.
India vs New Zealand: T20I Series Schedule
First T20I: October 22 – Christchurch
Second T20I: October 24 – Christchurch
Third T20I: October 27 – Wellington
Fourth T20I: October 30 – Auckland
Fifth T20I: November 1 – Hamilton
