IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction 3rd T20I 2026: Top Picks, Playing XI, Pitch Report for India vs New Zealand Guwahati Match

India is close to winning the T20I series against New Zealand after two commanding victories in Nagpur and Raipur. With the score at 2-0 The action is now shifting to the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati for the crucial third game. The hosts have shown their skill with a frenzied batting style and a disciplined spin bowling style which leaves the Black Caps looking for solutions in the difficult conditions of the subcontinent.

For New Zealand, this is an absolute must-win game to keep their hopes of winning the series alive. For India, it’s a chance to take a commanding 3-1 lead and possibly experiment with their team. This high-risk game isn’t only a contest on the field but an important occasion for those who love fantasy cricket. When you are preparing your Dream11 team, knowing the crucial players and pitch conditions, as well as probable playing XIs, is vital. This thorough analysis provides all the information you need to make informed predictions and create an effective fantasy lineup for the IND Vs NZ 3rd T20I.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: 3rd T20I Match Overview

The scene is set for a crucial match of the five-match T20I series as India and New Zealand lock horns at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. With India having a commanding two-goal lead, the onus is on New Zealand to ensure that the series continues while New Zealand’s Men in Blue look to finish the job with a hat-trick victory.

Match Details:

• Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM IST
• Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
• Live Action: Sports18 Network & JioHotstar

The series’ storyline was shaped by India’s relentless effectiveness. In the opening T20I at Nagpur, India posted a massive 238/7, destroying the Kiwi attack thanks to Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 50 off just 22 balls. The subsequent T20I in Raipur was a similar story and saw India taking on New Zealand’s 190-ball score easily, thanks to Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar’s impressive batsmanship.

New Zealand, conversely, has struggled to find feet in subcontinental conditions. While the individual brilliance of Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra has offered glimpses of potential, they’ve not been able to work as a team. The guests need to win to remain relevant during the tour, which ends at the end of January.

For Dream11 and cricket fans who love fantasy. This match will provide an intriguing and exciting. With India seeking to close out the series, we could see aggressive, high-risk play at the top of the order. In addition, New Zealand’s desperateness could result in the top all-rounders taking on the responsibility to carry the load. The influence of the dew in Guwahati will also play an important role in making the toss as well as team selection essential to your fantasy game plan.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Barsapara Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati is known as a paradise for batters and cricket fans can anticipate fireworks during this third T20I. The surface is typically able to provide an authentic bounce and a consistent speed, allowing stroke makers to rely on the pitch and follow the ball’s path from the beginning. With relatively short boundaries, misses are often thrown through the ropes, creating an ideal place for bowlers to have a limited margin for error.

The past has produced high-scoring, thrilling matches. The average score of the first innings in T20s here is around 176. However, given India’s current form as well as the flatness of the deck, a score in the 200-180 range is likely. The top score for this match is India’s record-breaking 237/3 in the match against South Africa, proving that when batters are set, they are able to run like water.

The Dew Factor: A Crucial Variable

One of the most important things to consider when playing in Guwahati in January is the dew factor. The match starts at 7:00 pm IST the dew is expected to build up in the second half of the innings. This can make gripping the ball a challenge for bowlers, especially spinners, thereby neutralizing their spin and drift.

Thus, the toss becomes an essential strategic element. The captain who wins the coin flip will most likely decide to play first. Chasing teams have an obvious advantage in this situation winning 4 of the last six T20Is held at this stadium. The wet ball glides over the bat well in the second section, making run-chase runs significantly simpler.

What This Means for Your Fantasy Team

• Batters: Fill your fantasy team with top-of-the-line batters on both sides. The real bounce favors aggressive openers who are able to make use of the powerplay.
• Bowlers: Don’t stock with finger spinners who are bowling during the second innings. Instead, focus on quick bowlers who are able to hit yorkers (like Bumrah) or mystery spinners (like Varun Chakravarthy) whose variations may still be effective even with a wet ball.
• Captaincy: A captain of the chasing team or opener on the chasing team is a sure option for the multiplier role due to the favorable conditions for batting later on during the match.

Head-to-Head Stats: IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction

When evaluating the potential of fantasy cricket, historical data can provide the clearest picture of what we can anticipate. The competition between India and New Zealand in the shortest format has always been intense. Recent trends indicate an increase in intensity that fantasy managers should not ignore.

India currently has the advantage in the overall head-to-head record. Of the 25 T20Is played between the two cricket powerhouses, the Men in Blue have emerged triumphant 14 times; in contrast, the Black Caps have won 10. One game ended in a draw.

But, the most important data to use in your Dream11 prediction is the most recent performance. In the past five matches, India has been ruthless, winning four times. This dominance is especially evident in the home environment, as India’s batting depth and spin attack have consistently beaten New Zealand.

For the Guwahati match, it’s important to note that even though the sample size isn’t huge, the pattern is evident: teams that bat second have a huge advantage and have won 4 out of 6 games played at this location. In addition, although pace usually gets the spotlight, spinners have played a key role with 16 wickets taken in these matches. This suggests you shouldn’t completely dismiss slow bowlers, even with the dew factor.

IND vs NZ T20I Head-to-Head Summary

Format	Total Matches	India Wins	New Zealand Wins	Ties/No Result
T20I Overall	25	14	10	1/0
Last 5 Matches	5	4	1	0

Fantasy Insight: The evidence strongly favors the possibility of an Indian victory, particularly when they chase. The idea of stacking your team with Indian top-order batters and chase specialists is a sound statistical strategy Based on the numbers.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Team Previews and Probably Playing XI

India Team Preview: Firing on All Cylinders

Amid a flurry of confidence, Team India enters the third T20I with a single goal to end the series. With the captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav, the squad has been an extremely well-oiled machine, showing an explosive mix of batsmen and an intelligent bowling system that have resulted in New Zealand struggling to keep the pace. Their performances have been an absolute success in adapting to their home conditions and now they appear set to continue their winning run.

The Indian camp is buzzing with enthusiasm. Their strategy has been straightforward but incredibly effective: play fast from the beginning. In the opening T20I the top order was able to score an impressive 68/2 on the powerplay, laying the foundation for a match-winning score. This uncompromising approach has put enormous stress on Kiwi bowlers and is the foundation of their success. With the series at stake I expect India to continue to amplify this ruthless approach.

In-Form Players and Key Strengths

The strength of India lies in its amazing bowling depth and the variety in the bowling technique.

• Abhishek Sharma: The opening batsman has been an absolute revelation and has been able to take the fight to the opposition from the very first ball. His explosive 50 off only 22 balls in the opening game of the series demonstrated his ability to stop bowling attack in the powerplay. The player is a must-see and the top fantasy player.
• Suryakumar Yadav, captain of the team has commanded from the front, anchored the middle line-up with his signature 360-degree strokeplay. His ability to score at a an impressive rate of strike without taking unnecessary risks makes him the core of this batting line-up.
• Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh: The speed pair provides stability in the closing and opening stages. Arshdeep’s ability to take early wickets, and Bumrah’s proficiency of the final overs gives India an advantage, particularly on a ground with high scoring like Guwahati.
• Spin Trio: The trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Axar Patel gives control and wicket-taking possibilities through middle overs, which is an essential aspect of T20 cricket.

India Probable XI for 3rd T20I

With the series now completed, India is likely to keep its winning formula. However, there could be a desire to offer Rinku Singh a shot in instead of Sanju Samson, based on the team’s tactical requirements.

1. Abhishek Sharma
2. Ishan Kishan (WK)
3. Suryakumar Yadav (C)
4. Sanju Samson / Rinku Singh
5. Hardik Pandya
6. Shivam Dube
7. Axar Patel
8. Kuldeep Yadav
9. Varun Chakravarthy
10. Arshdeep Singh
11. Jasprit Bumrah

The Impact Player Harshit Rana is a player who could be added as an impact replacement when the team requires an additional bowling option, especially when they are trying to defend the entire. His speed could be an asset.

New Zealand Team Preview: Searching for a Lifeline

Afraid of being in a corner, New Zealand faces a do-or-die scenario in Guwahati. With the series at stake the Black Caps are desperate for a win to stop the momentum of India and keep their hopes of a tour alive. The subcontinent tour has been a difficult testing for Mitchell Santner’s team that has been unable to stop India’s ferocious batsman and spin-heavy bowling. Despite the 2-0 deficit, New Zealand has shown glimpses of its determination, but individual efforts haven’t been enough to secure a victory.

The biggest challenge facing the Kiwis has been their inability to create and maintain pressure. Although their batsmen have scored competitive scores, their bowling team has been unable to contain India’s explosive lineup. The high-scoring characteristic of the Barsapara pitch, in conjunction with the dew factor, will only increase the stress on the bowlers. To allow New Zealand to turn their fortunes, they need an entire team performance in which bowlers and batters work in unison.

Key Players and Potential Game-Changers

Although the team has had a difficult time but a handful of players stand out, and they will be vital for New Zealand’s chances in the third T20I.

• Mitchell Santner: The captain has been New Zealand’s most impressive performer. His remarkable unbeaten 47 off just 27 balls during the second T20I proved his worth using the bat, and his efficient left-arm spin offers a crucial control option during the middle overs. His versatility makes him an essential player in the fantasy game.
• Glenn Phillips: Known for his powerful hitting, Phillips hit a lightning-fast 50 off just 29 balls in the opening match. The ability of Phillips to score quickly at the middle and even death overs is an unstoppable threat, and a player who can change the direction of a game.
• Rachin Ravindra: The skilled all-rounder has shown potential in the middle of the order, with a quick 44 off 26 balls. His aggressive approach in the powerplay is the type of play New Zealand needs to get ahead early in the game.

New Zealand Probable XI for 3rd T20I

New Zealand might consider bringing the experienced Devon Conway to bolster their hitting, possibly as an impact player. If not, they’re expected to field the same lineup and hope for better execution.

1. Rachin Ravindra
2. Tim Robinson
3. Daryl Mitchell
4. Glenn Phillips
5. Mark Chapman
6. James Neesham
7. Mitchell Santner (C)
8. Zakary Foulkes
9. Jacob Duffy
10. Matt Henry
11. Ish Sodhi

The Impact Player Devon Conway could be used as a replacement for the impact player in the event that New Zealand is chasing a huge total. His experience and calm will be valuable in a high-pressure race-chase, giving security to the highest of the order.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Key Players to Watch

When you are putting together your fantasy lineup for the third T20I in Guwahati Certain players deserve attention not just because of their name, but also for their ability to flourish in these conditions. Based on their recent form as well as the flatness of the Barsapara pitch, this group of Indian players is among the most likely candidates for high fantasy points.

Abhishek Sharma (Batter)

Why he’s important: The young player is changing the definition of aggression and powerplay.
Abhishek Sharma is an absolute revelation on top of the list. His record-breaking 50 off 22 balls in the opener of the series wasn’t an accident; it was a bold statement. With the short boundaries of Guwahati and an area that provides real bounc,e the “see ball hit ball” strategy is specifically designed for this location. If he can survive the first two runs and is able to win, he can easily remove the game from New Zealand before the powerplay even starts.

Suryakumar Yadav (Captain & Batter)

Why he’s important: The top T20 player in the world is a fan of a flat deck.
The front-runner, “SKY” continues to be the core of India’s batting line-up. He is consistently hitting over 180 and he has the unbeatable ability to get into areas of the field that opposing captains aren’t able create fields for. Following winning a match in Raipur, he’s in the best position to hit. Expect a captain’s knock on this pitch. excels when the ball comes onto the bat beautifully.

Jasprit Bumrah (Bowler)

Why he’s important: The answer to the dew factor.
While most bowlers struggle once the dew begins to set in, Jasprit Bumrah operates in an entirely different league. His ability to hit yorkers with a slickness will keep him safe from the disadvantage of wet balls that affects many. He is India’s main weapon in the final phase when wickets are thrown in clusters. For managers looking to make their fantasy a reality, he is an ideal bet for points, regardless of whether India bowls in the first or second innings.

Arshdeep Singh (Bowler)

Why is he important? Powerplay specialist with a flair for identifying breakthroughs early.
With 111 T20I wickets under his belt, Arshdeep Singh has evolved into a real strike bowler. He can swing the ball with ease and has created a nifty shift of pace for slog overs. In high-scoring games such as those expected in Guwahati, early wickets are gold dust, and Arshdeep is the player most likely to offer these.

Hardik Pandya (All-Rounder)

Why is he important? The ideal match for a fantasy team.
Hardik Pandya is one of the best assets available for T20 cricket. His ability to finish with the bat and as a partnership-breaker with the ball gives him two opportunities to score big runs. In a batting paradise, his power-hitting skills during the last five overs could increase a score by 180-210, making him an important player to have on your team.

While the series scoreline may seem one-way traffic, New Zealand possesses individual talent that can turn any game on its head. For cricket fans and fantasy managers alike, Three Black Caps have the best chance to disrupt Guwahati’s dominance over India.

Mitchell Santner (Captain & All-Rounder)

Role: Left-arm Orthodox Spinner / Left-hand Batter
Recent Form 47* (27) and Economical bowling spells

The captain has been the only fighter standing tall amid the wreckage. Santner’s spirited performance of 47 not out from just 27 balls during the last match proved that he’s more than an experienced bowler who can bat a bit; he’s an all-rounder. In an event where dew can neutralize the turn, his knowledge in varying speeds and delivering tight lines is valuable. If New Zealand is to salvage pride, Santner will likely be at the center of the action by contributing points using both the ball and bat.

Glenn Phillips (Batter)

Role: Middle-order Aggressor / Wicket-keeper
Recent Form: 50 (29) in 1st T20I

Glenn Phillips is the X-factor in this line-up. He proved his skill in the opener of the series by soaring to a half-century of a century by bringing the pressure against the Indian bowlers when the others failed. Phillips is among the handful of Kiwi batters who are at ease with spin and high-pace as well. Phillips excels on flat tracks, and given the Guwahati pitch set to be a beast, Phillips is a great candidate to take on the big. Phillips’ athletic playing (or wicket-keeping points) can add another layer of value to fantasy teams.

Rachin Ravindra (Batter)

Role: Top-order Batter / Left-arm Spinner
Recent Form: 44 (26)

After a great World Cup, Rachin Ravindra is finding his feet in the T20 format. His quick 44 balls off just 26 demonstrated determination and a willingness to use the powerplay limitations. As an opener, he can provide ideal batting conditions for the match before the pitch becomes slower or spinners enter the game. His ability to add with a few turns of spin makes him a dual threat advantage; his primary role in this game will be to ensure an unbeatable start.

Summary of Key Stats

Player	Role	Key Recent Performance	Fantasy Potential
Mitchell Santner	All-Rounder	47* from 27 balls	High (Dual threat)
Glenn Phillips	Batter	50 balls for 29 balls	High (Explosive scorer)
Rachin Ravindra	Bat/Bowl	44 balls off 26 balls	Medium-High (Top order value)

IND vs NZ Dream11 Predictions: Top Picks & Team Combinations for Guwahati

When the focus shifts towards Guwahati to play the series’ deciding match, making the best Dream11 team is a combination of strategic thinking and taking risks. Because of the high-scoring nature of the field and India’s dominant form, your dream team should focus on high-order batters as well as reliable death bowlers.

Top Fantasy Picks for IND vs NZ 3rd T20I

The players you can’t afford to miss out on this crucial game:

• Wicket-keepers: Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson are both great options. Kishan is a strong player during the powerplay and Samson gives stability and power to finish in the middle of the order.
• Batter: Suryakumar Yadav (C) is a non-negotiable selection. His present form and his ability in flat pitching make him the best captain’s pick. Abhishek Sharma (VC) is a dynamite choice for vice-captain. His power-play hitting could earn massive points quickly. A native of New Zealand, Glenn Phillips is a must-have because of his ability to score huge points against any type of attack.
• All-Rounders: Hardik Patel offers tremendous value both with ball and bat, which makes him a must-choice. Mitchell Santner is another strong candidate; his contribution using the bat lower in the order and his efficient bowling inthe middle overs guarantee points.
• Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are the most popular pacers. Bumrah’s death-bowling is legendary and Arshdeep is an experienced wicket-taker using the latest ball. In terms of spin, Kuldeep Yadav’s ability to take wickets in the middle of the overs makes him a vital element of any fantasy team.

Must-Have Picks for Grand Leagues

To rise to the top of the Grand Leagues, you need to choose players with high-risk and high-reward potential.

• Shivam Dube’s role as a finisher is crucial. If the pitch is batting-friendly, he has the potential to rack up 30-40 runs during the last overs, which could be a game-changer to your dream score.
• Varun Chakravarthy – The elusive spinner could be a good differential choice. Batters are often unable to read his game, which can lead to wickets against the flow of play. If the pitch has any indication of grip, he may traverse the middle of the order.

Suggested Dream11 Team Combinations

Small League / Head-to-Head (Safe Team)

This strategy focuses on top players and reliable picks and balancing the team to ensure steady returns.

• WK: Ishan Kishan
• Batsmen: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson
• All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya (VC), Mitchell Santner
• Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy

Grand League (High-Risk Team)

This team takes some calculated risk by backing players who could have the potential to produce an impressive individual accomplishment, which is essential to winning big-pool competitions.

• WK: Sanju Samson
• Batsmen: Abhishek Sharma (VC), Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell
• All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya (C), Mitchell Santner, James Neesham
• Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Jacob Duffy

Captain and Vice-Captain Choices

• Captain (C) Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeatable performance at home and love of flat pitches makes Suryakumar Yadav the most secure and powerful captaincy option.
• Vice-Captain (VC): Abhishek Sharma. His frenzied starts can provide your team with an immediate and significant point boost, which makes him a perfect high-impact VC.
• Differential VC: Jasprit Bumrah – Regardless of the conditions in the match, Bumrah is almost guaranteed to score wickets, particularly at the end of the match. He is a safe floor of points and an impressive ceiling.

India vs New Zealand Fantasy Cricket Tips: Mastering the Guwahati Strategy

Making a winning fantasy squad for the third T20I at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium requires more than simply picking the top names. It requires a deep understanding of the particular situations at Guwahati and the strategic patterns that are common to both India and New Zealand. Here’s your plan of action to maximise your points for this series’s deciding player.

1. Load Up on India’s Top Order

The most important strategy for this game is to invest heavily in India’s batting line-up. With their current form — averaging the 68/2 mark in the first Powerplay of the series, the top order is the one where most scores will be derived.

• Credit Allocation: Attempt to allocate 60-70 percent of your bat credits to Indian players.
• The logic is: Whether India bats first and creates a huge total or chases a target using the help of dew, the top three players (Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav) will likely to be facing the majority of the shots. Don’t risk leaving them out.

2. The All-Rounder Balance

While India is the most dominant batting nation, New Zealand offers value through its players who can be found equally in the two innings.

• The Mix: A well-balanced fantasy team should include five core Indian players as well as 2-3 New Zealand all-rounders.
• The reason it works is that players like Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra are considered safe, since even if they make a mistake with the bat, they have four chances to make amends with the ball. This dual-role ability provides security to your dream score, something pure batters can’t.

3. Spin to Win in Guwahati

Reports from pitch and history indicate that Guwahati can aid spinners, particularly in the first innings prior to the dew is fully set.

• The Method: Make sure you are a spin-heavy bowler. Combining Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Mitchell Santner covers all bases–mystery spin, chinaman aggression, and traditional control.
• Differential Pick: If New Zealand bowls first, Ish Sodhi could be a risky, but rewarding choice if the pitch is not wet.

4. Grand League Differentiators

To be a winner in the Grand Leagues (GL), you have to stand out from the pack. The majority of players will play captain Suryakumar Yadav or Hardik Pandya. To be noticed:

• Target Differentials: If the playing team indicates their participation, players such as Harshit Rana (raw pace) or Rachin Ravindra (if opening) could have significant differences. They are owned by low rates but high ceilings on points.
• The Dew Factor: If India chases the dew, it will make it much easier to bat during the second innings. In this scenario, putting together India’s top three players and selecting one as Captain/Vice Captain is a powerful GL strategy.

5. Who to Avoid

• Pure Tailenders: When playing T20s on flat decks, such as Guwahati, wickets won’t be piled up for the bowling side if the dew is heavy. Beware of picking pure bowlers from the group that bowls second, and who do not bowl at the end of the innings.
• Par Score Target: Create your team with a par score of between 185 and 190. This means you should choose batters who hit at 150or more over anchors, who could use too many balls to achieve too little runs.

IND vs NZ Match Prediction: India Poised for a Clean Sweep

As the series shifts towards Guwahati to play the final match, all indications point towards India winning a convincing whitewash of 3-0. Even though New Zealand has shown moments of individual brilliance but they have been defeated by a ruthless and confident Indian team that is unstoppable at home. With India’s explosive batting, their versatile bowling, and a shrewd depth, they are the clear favorite to take home the trophy.

India’s greatest strength is its batting lineup. With a flat field expected, the top order, anchored by the ferocious Abhishek Sharma as well as the skilled Suryakumar Yadav, is likely to score or even surpass a record-breaking total. The team has proven that it is capable of setting a target at or above 190, which puts a tremendous amount of pressure on any side that chases it, even in the presence of dew. In addition, India’s spin trio comprising Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, as well as the all-round abilities of Hardik Pandya provide them with a range of options for taking wickets in the middle overs which has been the reason New Zealand was unable to win during the entire series.

New Zealand, on the other on the other hand, has had a difficult time finding consistency. Their batting is heavily reliant on Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner and they are not equipped with the strength to overcome early setbacks against India’s superior bowling. While they’ll definitely be determined to regain some pride but their bowling attack has been lacking in ideas against India’s aggressive approach. They might struggle to control the flow of runs on a surface that is batting friendly.

Predicted Outcome:

India is likely to win the game comfortably. If they choose to bat first expect an average of 190-210. Their spinners will be able to defend in spite of the dew. If they try to chase, their strong batsmen should make quick work of the goal.

• If India bats first, India to beat India by 25-30 runs.
• If India bowls first: India to win with four or five wickets left.

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Frequently Asked Questions: IND vs NZ 3rd T20I Dream11 Prediction