Who Will Replace Ishan Kishan in 2nd T20I? Top 3 Candidates

India’s team combination could face an unexpected change ahead of the second T20I against New Zealand, with Ishan Kishan reportedly struggling with a groin niggle. Ishan Kishan injury update has been a major talking point ever since Tilak Varma was promoted to No. 3 during the series opener.

If Kishan is unavailable for the next game, India will have to identify a suitable replacement without compromising their batting depth. While Vaibhav Suryavanshi appears to be a strong contender, Shivam Dube and Kuldeep Yadav could also be named as Ishan Kishan replacement, depending on India's preferred combination.

Who Will Replace Ishan Kishan in IND vs NZ 2nd T20I?

There are several candidates in the India squad who can replace Ishan Kishan in the NZ vs IND 2nd T20I at Christchurch. This also increases the possibility of Vaibhav Suryavanshi in 2nd T20I, something that his fans have been waiting for a long time. Here are the possible Ishan Kishan replacements for the second T20I.

1. Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Vaibhav Suryavanshi could be India's most exciting replacement option for Ishan Kishan in the second T20I. The teenage sensation is already part of the squad and offers the fearless batting approach that has made him one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world.

Although Sooryavanshi is primarily an opener, India could consider reshuffling their batting order to accommodate him. Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson can continue at the top, with the youngster potentially slotting into the middle order or prompting another adjustment.

2. Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube is another option India could consider, especially if the management wants to strengthen its batting depth rather than bring in a specialist batter. The all-rounder can provide explosive hitting against both pace and spin, making him a useful addition to India's middle order.

Dube's ability to clear the ropes could be particularly helpful after India's middle-order struggles during the first T20I before Shreyas Iyer and Naman Dhir rescued the chase. His medium-pace bowling also offers an additional option, although India would need to decide whether his inclusion suits the team's overall balance. However, playing Dube would mean India would be opting for an experienced power-hitter over a direct batting replacement in Suryavanshi.

3. Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav could emerge as a surprise candidate if India decide against selecting either Suryavanshi or Dube. India had five players on the bench during the first T20I, including two batting options and three bowling options, with Kuldeep among the reserves.

The left-arm wrist-spinner could strengthen India's bowling attack as he is one of the best spinners in the world. India conceded 225 runs in the series opener, with Glenn Phillips smashing an unbeaten 82 off 40 deliveries.

Interestingly, India's pacers found it difficult to contain New Zealand's aggressive batting, while the spinners also faced punishment. However, New Zealand's spinners proved more economical, suggesting India could consider a different bowling combination rather than simply adding another batter. Kuldeep's inclusion would require a significant reshuffle, though, as India would still need to address Kishan's absence in the batting order.