Final tune-up for India before World Cup mission

Before the spotlight shifts to Mumbai for their T20 World Cup title defence, the India national cricket team has one unfinished task in Thiruvananthapuram. The last T20I against the New Zealand national cricket team at the Greenfield International Stadium on Saturday offers a chance to regain control, test combinations, and carry momentum into the global tournament.

India wrapped up the five-match series early with wins in the first three games, but the defeat in the fourth T20I at Visakhapatnam exposed a few gaps. After also conceding the ODI series 1–2, the hosts will want a strong finish to reinforce their credentials in the shortest format.

Batting firepower has been the biggest positive. The top order has repeatedly shifted matches in a few overs, and this series has already produced rare numbers. Abhishek Sharma smashed a 14-ball half-century in Guwahati, the second fastest by an Indian in T20Is, just behind the 12-ball benchmark set by Yuvraj Singh during the 2007 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Even in the loss in Visakhapatnam, there were bright spots. Shivam Dube hammered a 15-ball fifty and made 65 off 23 deliveries while chasing a steep target, nearly turning the game after a collapse. His innings stood out in a match where the team tried different options.

The final fixture doubles as an audition. Sanju Samson, yet to make an impact in four outings, returns to his home ground under pressure to deliver. With Abhishek providing rapid starts, India will want both openers in rhythm before the World Cup begins.

New Zealand, under Mitchell Santner, will look to build on their 50-run win in the fourth match, powered by Tim Seifert’s 36-ball 62. The visitors could also hand an opportunity to hard-hitter Finn Allen as they fine-tune their plans.

For India, the objective is simple. Finish well in Thiruvananthapuram, lock in the right XI, and step into the World Cup with confidence and clarity.