Why Ishan Kishan is Not Batting at No 3 in NZ vs IND 1st T20I? Batting Order Change Explained

India's batting order grabbed attention during the run-chase in the 1st T20I against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday, October 22. The visitors are chasing a challenging target of 226 runs after the Black Caps posted a big total in the first innings.

Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma showed why they are amongst the best T20 batsmen and provided India with an aggressive start, putting the New Zealand bowlers under pressure. However, Abhishek's dismissal for 29 during the sixth over brought an unexpected twist, as Ishan Kishan did not walk out to bat at his usual No. 3 position.

Why Ishan Kishan is Not Batting at No 3 in 1st T20I?

Instead of Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma arrived at the crease following Abhishek Sharma's dismissal, leaving fans surprised by India's batting-order change. Kishan has been batting at No. 3 consistently for India in T20Is. However, he didn't come out to bat at his usual position. There is no official reason from the BCCI or the Indian team management regarding Ishan Kishan batting order change.

One possible explanation could be Kishan sustained a niggle or minor injury while fielding. So, Tilak Varma's promotion might have been intended to maintain the left-right batting combination alongside Sanju Samson, depending on the match situation. India could also have considered sending Shreyas Iyer, a recognised middle-order batter who bats at No. 4, but opted for Tilak instead to maintain the left-right combination.

Where Did Ishan Kishan Bat in 1st T20I?

Ishan Kishan eventually walked out to bat at No. 5 in the second innings, but his promotion delay did not yield the desired results. The wicketkeeper-batter managed just one run during the NZ vs IND 1st T20I, failing to make an impact during the chase of 226 runs.

Tilak Varma batting position was changed as he was promoted ahead of Kishan following Abhishek Sharma's dismissal. Tilak, too, endured a disappointing outing, scoring only six runs before getting dismissed. Ishan Kishan's batting order change, therefore, did not work out for either batter.

Earlier, New Zealand had posted an imposing 225/4 in their 20 overs, with Glenn Phillips smashing an unbeaten 82 off 40 deliveries.

India's altered batting combination was an interesting tactical move, but the early dismissals put additional pressure on the middle order. However, the Men in Blue chased down the target later and completed the highest successful run-chase by India in T20Is to go 1-0 up in the five-match series.