After a clinical win in Nagpur, Team India have landed in Raipur with confidence sky-high and momentum firmly on their side. With a 1-0 lead already secured, the second T20 isn’t just another match — it’s the game that can push New Zealand to the edge of a series defeat.
For the visitors, this feels like a must-win. For India, it’s a golden chance to tighten the grip and go 2-0 up before the series heads to the next venues.
What’s at Stake in Raipur?
India’s 48-run win in the opener wasn’t close. It was domination. And now, with Raipur hosting the second match, the equation is simple.
- India win: New Zealand are suddenly staring at a near “do-or-die” situation for the rest of the series
- New Zealand win: The series opens up again, and pressure flips instantly onto India
That’s why Raipur could become the turning point of the entire five-match battle.
Pitch & Conditions: What to Expect in Raipur?
The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium has often offered a pitch that can be tricky. It’s not always a pure batting paradise — especially early on — but it can become easier once dew sets in.
Pitch nature
Expect a track that could play slightly two-paced, helping bowlers who hit hard lengths, while spinners might get grip as the match progresses.
The Dew Factor (Game Changer)
If there’s one factor captains will be most worried about, it’s dew.
That’s why:
- Winning the toss and bowling first may be the safest option
- Defending totals becomes hard when the ball turns wet and skids on
- Spinners struggle to control the ball late in the innings
In short: toss could matter more than usual.
Team News & Tactical Battles
India’s momentum: Fearless cricket continues?
India’s biggest strength in Nagpur was mindset — they played fearless cricket from ball one. If the same aggressive approach continues, New Zealand could be under serious trouble again.
Key tactical battle: Abhishek Sharma vs Santner’s spin plan
All eyes will be on Abhishek Sharma, who turned the first match into his personal highlight reel.
But New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner will surely have a spin trap ready:
- slower balls into the pitch
- spin in powerplay if needed
- boundary riders to force mistimed big shots
Raipur’s pitch could help Santner’s plans more than Nagpur did.
The Kiwi problem: Top order failure
New Zealand can’t afford another slow or collapsing start.
In the first match, their top order couldn’t build any stability — and that left too much pressure on the middle order. Players like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra must deliver, otherwise it’s repeat damage.
Predicted Playing XIs
India (likely unchanged)
India may stick with the same XI that delivered in Nagpur. The only question could be around fitness/injury updates, but if everyone is fit, expect no changes.
New Zealand (possible bowling tweak)
New Zealand may consider adding:
- an extra pace option to cut down the powerplay runs
- or a different spinner to control India’s middle overs
Their biggest need is simple: stop the run flow early, because India’s finishers will punish any late control.
NRR Scenarios: Why the Margin Matters
Even though it’s a bilateral series, Net Run Rate (NRR) dominance matters in terms of confidence and momentum.
- A second big win for India will further prove their control in the series
- For New Zealand, even a win isn’t enough — they ideally need a big win to keep their NRR and confidence healthy
In short: this match isn’t just about two points — it’s about the message.
Match Prediction + Broadcast Details
Who has the edge?
India, clearly. They have form, confidence, and match-winners in every department.
But if dew plays heavy and New Zealand win the toss, the game could tighten.
Match: India vs New Zealand, 2nd T20I
Date: Friday, 23 January 2026
Time: 7:00 PM IST
Venue: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
Live Telecast/Streaming (India): Star Sports Network, JioHotstar
Do you think India will win the 2nd T20 in Raipur and take a 2-0 lead? Let us know in the comments.
