IND vs NZ 2nd T20I 2026 Dream11 Prediction: Raipur Pitch Report, Playing XI After 1-0 Lead, Head-to-Head & Must-Picks – India to Seal Series?

Team India put on a dazzling display in Nagpur to take a 1-0 lead in the T20I series against New Zealand. After posting a spirited score of 180/5, the Indian team defeated the Kiwi batting line-up, winning by 48 runs. The win was built upon exciting bowling and disciplined batting and set a high standard for the remainder of the tournament.

The first match featured several outstanding performances that helped India to victory. A young opener, Abhishek Sharma, was a standout, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten and mature half-century. Captain Suryakumar Yadav provided crucial momentum by scoring a rapid 43. All-rounder Shivam Dube made a significant impact using the ball, grabbing three crucial wickets in just 20 runs. In response, New Zealand faltered, bowled out for just 132 despite a determined performance from Glenn Phillips.

The action is now set to move to the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur for the second T20I on January 23. The game is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm IST. The stakes are important for both teams. With a series win in hand, India will be looking to take the trophy home with a few minutes left. For Mitchell Santner’s New Zealand, it’s a do-or-die scenario. They need to find a way to stop the momentum of India and trigger a final. Can India take advantage of their winning streak to win the series or will the Black Caps come back and even the score?

India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I Match Preview

India with a 1-0 advantage in the series, is scheduled to take on New Zealand in the second T20I on the 23rd of January at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur. The game starts at 7 pm IST. After a stunning 48-run victory in Nagpur, India aims to finish the series off, while the Kiwis are in a need-to-win situation to maintain their hopes. The game promises high stakes as well as intense cricket game as one side competes to win the title while the other battles to stay alive.

Teams	India vs New Zealand
Venue	Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium, Raipur
Date	January 23, 2026
Time	7:00 PM IST

If you are making your Dream11 prediction for today’s match, you should focus on top players. Suryakumar Yadav as well as Abhishek Sharma are the top choices from India due to their crucial performances in the first game. For New Zealand, Glenn Phillips remains a must-have player following his impressive knock. The ability to balance your team with these top players can be key to winning fantasy games.

Raipur Pitch Report: IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction

The field for the second T20I shifts to the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur which has a only a brief but interesting story of international cricket. As India is looking to win the series, and New Zealand fights to stay alive the 22-yard strip at Raipur will play an important role in determining the game’s outcome. Understanding the specifics of this ground is crucial for both teams as they decide their strategies.

The stadium has played host to some ODIs and domestic matches however, it’s T20 International experience is limited to a single game. In the one match, India faced Australia and posted a score of 174/9. The Australian team, in response was limited to a tepid 174/9, highlighting the difficulties of chasing at this location. The results of that game show the clear picture the team that batted first was victorious. The 100% win rate for the team setting an objective is a fact that captains should not overlook when they are tossing the ball.

The average score of the first innings at the SVNS Stadium in T20Is stands at 174, which is an impressive score for modern T20 cricket. However the average score of the second team that bats drops to 154, which indicates an important benefit for the team that defends scores. This drop-off could be due to the unique characteristics of the Raipur ground and pitch.

One of the most prominent aspects of the park is its extensive boundaries. The vast outfield means that mishits are less likely go for sixes, which forces batters to sprint hard and make their shots with a preciseness. Bowlers, especially spinners, can use the dimensions to their advantage, throwing the ball and inviting batters to risk their lives.

The pitch itself is the best of everything. In the initial few overs, fast bowlers can anticipate some bounce and carry, which makes the new ball phase an extremely difficult time for openers. As the game grows and the ball becomes older the surface tends to slow down, which brings spinners to the table. Recently, in domestic games, spinners have had a lot of success, often dominating the middle overs, and also reducing the stream of runs. The pitch’s two-paced design can make it difficult for new batters to get in quickly.

However, there is a counter-argument that favors the side of chase that is due. Raipur is known for its abundance of dew during the evenings, particularly during the summer months. A wet ball can be difficult to handle for bowlers, making it hard to execute variations such as yorkers and slower deliveries. The ball can also skid on the bat which could make stroke-play more enjoyable for the team that is chasing. This dew factor can create an interesting strategic issue for the captain who has won the toss.

Despite the possibility of dew, the past evidence is overwhelmingly in favor of the “bat first” strategy. Pressure from a scoreboard, combined with a pitch that helps spinners in the later stages, has proven to be a successful formula. Teams tend to put an accurate score on the board, and then, depending on their bowlers, take advantage of the conditions of the pitch as the game progresses. For the upcoming match, the captain who wins the toss will probably decide to bowl first. hoping to reach 175-180, which will create an impressive fortress that the opponents will be unable to penetrate.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Team News & Probable XIs

As the caravan of cricketers heads toward Raipur for the second T20I, both India and New Zealand are busy finalizing their team strategies. While India enjoys a high-profile victory after winning a convincing victory at Nagpur, New Zealand faces an extremely difficult situation that requires adjustments in their tactical plans. Here’s a comprehensive review of the team’s news, injury updates, and expected 11-man squads for the upcoming match at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium.

India Team News: Stability Meets Strategy

Team India is currently in the sweet spot. The comprehensive 48-run victory in the opening game of the series has given captain Suryakumar Yadav plenty of breathing space. The team clicked in almost every department–top-order aggression, middle-order stability, and death bowling precision.

Key Focus Areas

• Top Order Firepower: Abhishek Sharma has proved the validity of his selection with a stunning unbeaten 50 at Nagpur. He is able to strike with the first ball, which takes pressure off the middle order.
• Captain’s Knock: Suryakumar Jadav continues to be the mainstay of the current T20 side. His 43-run performance was crucial in setting an aim of 180+, and he’ll be looking to convert his starts into a match-winning hundred on a wicket-friendly Raipur track.
• All-Round Impact: Shivam’s revival is the most positive for India. His 3/20 on the ball showed that he’s not just a batting all-rounder, but a true bowling option, which gives the captain crucial flexibility.

Potential Changes

The winning combination is usually difficult to alter. However, the management could consider tweaking the batting line-up. There is a lot of buzz surrounding Ishan Kishan. With Shreyas Iyer enjoying an uncharacteristic performance in the initial game, the introduction of a dynamic left-handed player such as Kishan could give you more balance and more aggression against New Zealand’s spin attack. Kishan’s experience in Indian conditions, as well as his capability to stop spin, make him an attractive contender for the three or four slot.

New Zealand Team News: Seeking Redemption

For New Zealand, the equation is easy: adapt or die. The batting collapse in Nagpur revealed weaknesses against top-quality spin and pace. Captain Mitchell Santner has a tough task ahead of him to boost the morale of a team that was not able to compete in the first game.

Key Focus Areas

• The Lone Warrior: Glenn Phillips was the only batsman who remained strong at the start of the first T20I and scored an impressive in the 78th. The fortunes of New Zealand are heavily dependent on his ability to hit again, but he’ll need support from the other side.
• Spin Strategy: Rachin Ravindra and Mitchell Santner will be the key players in the Raipur pitch, which typically assists spinners in the second portion of the match. If New Zealand bowls second, this pair could be deadly.
• Top Order Problems: Finn Allen and Devon Conway’s inability to get off to a good start put pressure on the middle of the order. The management hopes their veteran openers can withstand the storm from Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah.

Tactical Shifts

New Zealand might consider bolstering its batting depth. There is the possibility of adding an additional batting all-rounder, or changing their options for pace to find a bowler who is able to challenge India with their power play.

Probable Playing XIs

Based on the current performance, pitch conditions, and tactical needs, these are the projected playing elevens for both teams.

Team	Probable XI	Role
India	Abhishek Sharma	Opener
	Sanju Samson (wk)	Opener/WK
	Ishan Kishan	Top Order Batter
	Suryakumar Yadav (c)	Captain/Middle Order
	Hardik Pandya	All-Rounder
	Rinku Singh	Finisher
	Shivam Dube	All-Rounder
	Axar Patel	All-Rounder/Spin
	Varun Chakaravarthy	Spinner
	Arshdeep Singh	Pacer
	Jasprit Bumrah	Pacer
New Zealand	Tim Robinson	Opener
	Devon Conway (wk)	Opener/WK
	Rachin Ravindra	All-Rounder
	Glenn Phillips	Middle Order Batter
	Daryl Mitchell	Middle Order Batter
	James Neesham	All-Rounder
	Mitchell Santner (c)	Captain/All-Rounder
	Matt Henry	Pacer
	Ish Sodhi	Spinner
	Jacob Duffy	Pacer
	Tim Southee	Pacer

With India seeking to win the series, and New Zealand fighting for survival, the team sheets at the toss will show how defensive or aggressive each captain will be. Expect a high-octane game when these players take to the field in Raipur.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Head-to-Head & Recent Form

The past is often the most reliable predictor of sports, and in this moment, as India and New Zealand prepare to lock horns at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, the books of history are heavily in the favor of the Men in Blue. The rivalry between the two cricketing nations has produced many of the most thrilling matches in T20 International history, but recent trends suggest a shift in the power balance.

T20I Head-to-Head Record

The overall head-to-head record in T20 Internationals reflects the rivalry, which has been a fiercely contested battle throughout the years. In the 25 games that the two teams have played, India holds a clear advantage. They have prevailed in 14 matches, while New Zealand has won 10. One game ended withoutan outcome.

It is important to note that India’s total of 14 wins also includes two stunning Super Over victories, a reminder of how tight these matches can be. The Kiwis have often played India to the edge; however, India has always remained resilient. The Indian team has always found ways to win close games, particularly under pressure.

However, the fact that stands out most ahead of the Raipur match is India’s dominance at home on the field. Even though New Zealand has historically been extremely difficult to break into, it’s been unable to replicate its success traveling across the subcontinent. Indian pitches are notorious for their ability to help spin and need flexibility against bounce variations, which have frequently been the cause of the demise of tour Kiwi sides.

Head-to-Head Summary Table

Metric	Record
Total Matches Played	25
India Wins	14 (Includes 2 Super Over wins)
New Zealand Wins	10
No Result / Abandoned	1
Last 5 Encounters	India leads 4-1 in the race

Recent Form: Momentum vs. Desperation

The psychological impact of cricket is hard to overstate and current form paints a vivid picture of two teams advancing towards opposite directions.

India: Riding the Wave (Form Guide: W W W)

Team India arrives in Raipur filled with confidence. Their form guide is an exemplary ‘WWW’ score in their last three matches. The comprehensive victory of 48 runs in the opening T20I in Nagpur Nagpur was more than an achievement, it was an affirmation. The batting team is firing in a collective manner and different players are taking on different roles in every game and the bowling team is powerful even without certain senior professionals. The winning streak has led to positive feedback within the team which has players playing with confidence and confident that they’ve got the confidence to overcome minor setbacks during games.

New Zealand: Searching for Answers (Form Guide: L L L)

Contrastingly, New Zealand finds itself in an upswing. Their form guide lists three consecutive defeats (‘LLL’), a alarming trend for a team renowned for its strength and tactical expertise. The Black Caps have looked disjointed in recent games in their struggle to establish partnerships with bats and failing to sustain pressure on the ball. The loss at Nagpur revealed their vulnerability to top spin and ad hoc pace variations. Mitchell Santner’s men know that the task at Raipur is not just about mastering techniques, but also breaking through the mental blockage caused by defeats repeatedly.

The Impact on the 2nd T20I

This reversal in style and dominance set the stage for a thrilling contest. India will attempt to ruthlessly exploit New Zealand’s lagging confidence to win the series. They know that a weak opposition can be a risk however they also recognize that the Kiwis are fragile.

For New Zealand, the weight of history is heavy however, T20 cricket is unpredictable. One good over or a spectacular individual performance can change the tide. They’ll need to learn from their previous victories against India and keep in mind that despite their current deficit they have the ability to take on the hosts. If they don’t dramatically alter their recent course all indications point to India expanding their dominance and adding a “W” to their impressive record.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction 2nd T20I: Key Players to Watch

When India and New Zealand gear up for their second T20I match in Raipur the focus is now on the match-winners, who could have a major impact on the outcome of the game. The first game in Nagpur showed flashes of brilliance from a variety of players. Their performances will be crucial in the race to win the series, while the other battles for survival. Here’s a rundown of the major players of both teams that are likely to make an important impact.

India’s Game Changers

Awed by an impressive win the Indians’ success was a team effort however, four players stood out for their impressive performances. Their consistency is crucial for India to win the series.

Suryakumar Yadav

The Indian captain, affectionately referred to as SKY is the heart of the T20 batsmen’s line-up. His capability to score in 360 degrees around the field is an absolute nightmare for captains of opposition. In the opening T20I the quickfire 43 from just 25 balls gave the needed momentum to India’s innings and ensured they reached a colossal total. He doesn’t just score runs, they are scored at a speed that is demoralizes the bowlers. The way he leads has been highly proactive and his performance when batting is crucial. In Raipur Expect him to be a key player in the middle order, while also directing the field with his creative shot-making.

Abhishek Sharma

The new opener made a bold statement in his debut series beating the unbeaten mark of 50 in Nagpur. Abhishek’s ferocious strategy at the top of the order is what India requires to be successful in the powerplay. He was mature over his age, combining aggression with a smart shot selection to guide his bat throughout the innings. His ability to handle both spin and pace immediately creates immediate pressure on the opponent. As a left-handed player also has a significant advantage in terms of tactical. Everyone will be watching him to determine if he can repeat his feats and give another great start.

Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube’s performance during the very first T20I was possibly the most important takeaway for India. While his power-hitting ability in middle order has been well documented but his contribution to the ball was an absolute revelation. His 3/20 spell smashed the New Zealand middle order, using his variations and changes in speed to amazing effect. This double-skill allows India an incredible stability, allowing them to play an additional specialist bowler or batter. Dube has evolved into an all-rounder who can alter the course of a game by using either bat or ball and is one of India’s best assets.

Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah is still the undisputed pace king of India. His display at Nagpur (2/25) was an outstanding example of T20 bowling. He was efficient during the powerplay, and deadly when it came to the end by executing his yorkers as well as slower balls with a slickness that is his trademark. Bumrah’s presence creates the feeling of control to the captain, at any point of the game. His ability to play under pressure and to take vital wickets when required is what makes him stand out. With an New Zealand batting lineup desperate to victory, Bumrah’s 4 overs could be the decisive factor.

New Zealand’s Key Performers

To allow New Zealand to bounce back in the future, they will need their top players and young stars to perform at a higher level. The onus will be on these three individuals to lead an improvement.

Glenn Phillips

Glenn Phillips was the lone fighter in the side of New Zealand in their failed run chase in Nagpur. His blistering 78-run innings was a testimony to his strength and determination. While the other batsmen fell apart, Phillips stood firm, taking on the Indian bowlers. Phillips is a dynamite middle-order batter who is able to cross any boundary effortlessly and isn’t afraid of taking risks. His performance proved that he is able to maintain his team’s position in the pursuit. To ensure that the Black Caps be successful in Raipur the team needs Phillips to continue to impress however this time with greater backing by his teammates.

Mitchell Santner

As a captain and an all-rounder, Mitchell Santner’s job is double-duty. When he is playing the ball in his hands, his skillful left-arm spin is crucial on an Raipur pitch which is expected to provide assistance spinners. He is skilled at controlling the pace of runs in middle overs and will contribute with crucial wickets. When batting, he adds stability to the lower middle order and is able to make quick runs when needed. In addition his captaincy will be scrutinized. He will need to mobilize his troops and make bold choices and motivate them to make an eventual comeback. His performance will determine the direction for all the team members.

Rachin Ravindra

Rachin Ravindra is one the most thrilling young all-rounders the world of cricket. Although he played a quiet game in Nagpur but his potential to become a match-winner is unquestionable. As a top-order batsman, he has the ability and the temperament to construct an innings, bringing the stability New Zealand desperately lacked. When it comes to the ball left-arm spin, he offers an additional option to complement Santner. Ravindra is able to play a role in all three aspects of the game. New Zealand will be hoping that he can bring his best to Raipur. The impact of his contribution could be the jolt the Kiwis need to get back on track in the series.

IND vs NZ Toss Prediction & Match Prediction: The Road to Victory in Raipur

As teams get ready for the second T20I at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium the coin toss could be an important moment which could determine the outcome of the match. In the current version of T20 cricket, captains typically choose to chase, relying on the “dew factor” to ease the conditions for batting during the second innings. But, Raipur presents a different story one that challenges traditional notion of the pursuit of.

The Toss Strategy: Bat First, Win First

The past record of this venue however, while limited, point to a clear direction bat first. The stadium has an unbeaten record of 100% for teams that have set a goal instead of chasing one. The reasoning behind this trend is in the nature of the field. Although the surface provides good bounce and carry for the brand new ball, it is prone to slow down considerably as the game progresses.

Spinners are more dangerous in the second half of the game as they discover turns and grips that don’t exist in the first half of the game. Additionally, the psychological stress of a total scoreboard is often greater than the benefits of dew. In a high-stakes game, where India is determined to win the series while New Zealand fights for survival, the runs on the board are worth their weight in gold. Therefore, the captain who won the toss – whether it’s Suryakumar Yadav or Mitchell Santner- will likely decide to bat first to benefit from the best conditions for batting and allow their bowlers to squeeze the opponents later.

Match Prediction: India in the Driver’s Seat

In this match the momentum is towards the hosts. India’s comprehensive victory of 48 runs in Nagpur was not just a win, it was a tactical defeat of the Kiwi team. The Indian batsmen are strong with players such as Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav in fine control, and the bowling unit, helmed by Jasprit Bumrah and the rejuvenated Shivam Dube, has successfully exposed New Zealand’s weaknesses against spin and the pace variations.

Based on current results, home advantage and squad depth, India enters the contest as 65% favourites to win. New Zealand, while talented but has been inconsistent in their recent performances (LLL Form guide). They’re having a difficult time forming alliances and have been unable to counter India’s agressive powerplay tactics. If the Black Caps don’t draw a rabbit from the hat and put on a spectacular individual performance, the “Men in Blue” are set to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

Projected Scores and Scenarios

The surface in Raipur is worth the effort but penalizes reckless batsmanship because of the wide boundaries. A score of 200+ is not likely, but it is important to score competitively.

• If India Bats: First Expect a score of 175-180. The Indian top order is a force to be reckoned with and their depth permits them to continue attacking even if they fall early wickets.
• New Zealand’s response to an organized Indian offensive on a slower track, the forecast predicts New Zealand struggling to keep up with the required pace and could finish around 150, giving India another comfortable win.

Final Verdict

The chances, form, and conditions all favor India. Even though T20 is a sport full of incredible uncertainty, the most savvy bet is on India to win the game. New Zealand faces an uphill struggle to adapt to the conditions and the constant pressure from the hosts. Expect India to take advantage of the “bat first” advantage in the event that the coin goes their way, and eventually win the series under Raipur lights.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction 2nd T20I: Your Ultimate Dream11 Strategy

The action is now shifting towards Raipur to play the second T20I. Fantasy cricket players are preparing to build the ideal Dream11 team. With India leading 1-1 and New Zealand desperate for a comeback the stakes are high. The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium is renowned for its vast boundaries and a pitch that aids spinners as the match advances. This makes team selection a thrilling challenge. Here’s a comprehensive guide to captaincy selections and strategic combinations that will help you win your fantasy games.

Core Foundation: The Must-Pick Players

Certain players are in such a great performance that removing them from of your fantasy squad is a risk that isn’t worth taking. These players are the backbone of your team in both Small Leagues (SL) and Grand Leagues (GL).

• Suryakumar Yadav (SKY): The Indian captain is a guaranteed selection. His 360-degree game and unbeatable consistency make him an unbeatable scorer. After scoring 43 points in the first game, he’ll be determined to record a higher score. Whatever the pitch conditions, SKY has the skill to identify the gaps in his game and score quickly.
• Abhishek Sharma: The opener of the young generation made headlines in Nagpur and scored 50* in the match-winning game. His uncompromising approach in the power play has the potential to quickly rack up points. As a left-handed hitter is a key advantage over New Zealand’s bowling team. His confidence is high, making him a reliable option.
• Glenn Phillips: The lone player for New Zealand in the first T20I, Phillips showed his ability with a dazzling score of 78. Phillips is a devastating middle-order batsman who can completely change the course of play. He’s also a fantastic fielder, which increases his fantasy potential by catching.
• Shivam Dube: The all-round performance of Dube (3/20) during the opening match makes him a crucial selection. He is valuable with both bat and ball. His medium pace, combined with clever changes, proved to be efficient, as did his power-hitting capabilities within the middle order, which could be a great late-season boost. His dual role offers many avenues to score points.

Captain and Vice-Captain (C/VC) Choices

The selection of the best captain and vice-captain for your event is essential, as they provide 2x and 1.5x points, respectively. Your selection should align with the type of contest you are participating in.

For Small Leagues (SL) – Safe & Reliable

Player	Reason
Suryakumar Yadav (C)	The most reliable and powerful batter on both teams. It is a safe bet for a captaincy position.
Glenn Phillips (VC)	The Kiwi proved his worth with a stunning strike and is the core of the Kiwi batsmen.
Abhishek Sharma (VC)	In a hot form and scores rapidly in the powerplay which gives him a great chance to score points.

For Grand Leagues (GL) – High-Risk, High-Reward

Player	Reason
Shivam Dube (C)	His versatility gives him huge potential. Just a few wickets and an instant appearance can result in huge points.
Jasprit Bumrah (C)	A bowler-captain has a tremendous difference. When playing on a pitch that is helpful his death-bowling abilities can produce many wickets.
Rachin Ravindra (VC)	It was a quiet start to the season but is a world-class player. He can contribute by using bat, ball and on the field.

Building Your Team: Strategy and Differentials

In the light of Raipur pitches, equipping your squad with spinners and flexible all-rounders is a smart strategy.

• Spin to Win: The pitch is expected to slow, which makes spinners on both sides of the field valuable. Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy from India, as well as Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi from New Zealand, are excellent choices. A spin-heavy team could be a game-changer, particularly in the second innings.
• Budget Management: To attract top players like SKY and Bumrah, you must find value in your budget-friendly choices. Players like Rinku Singh and Tim Robinson can be excellent enablers, freeing up credit for premium options.
• GL Differentials: To be a winner in an opportunity to win a Grand League, you need to think outside of the box. Think about a death bowler such as Arshdeep Singh or Matt Henry as a differential. Also, a top-order batsman who was unsuccessful in the previous game, such as Devon Conway, could be an owner-less player who has a big score.

Sample Dream11 Team Combinations

Small League (SL) Team – Balanced and Safe

• WK: Sanju Samson, Devon Conway
• BAT: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Glenn Phillips (VC)
• AR: Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Mitchell Santner
• BOWL: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Matt Henry

Grand League (GL) Team – High-Risk, High-Reward

• WK: Sanju Samson
• BAT: Suryakumar Yadav, Rinku Singh, Glenn Phillips
• AR: Shivam Dube (C), Rachin Ravindra (VC), Axar Patel
• BOWL: Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy

By balancing your team’s your core players, making intelligent captaincy decisions, and taking advantage of the pitch conditions, you can create a winning team to win the next T20I.

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Frequently Asked Questions: IND vs NZ 2nd T20I