Ishan Kishan Ruled Out of Third T20I Against New Zealand as India Face Another Injury Setback
India have suffered another setback ahead of the third T20 International against New Zealand, with wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan ruled out of the match because of a right adductor strain. The Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed on October 26, 2026, that Kishan is recovering well but has not yet regained the match fitness required to return to competitive action.
The third T20I is scheduled to take place in Wellington on October 27. India will enter the contest with a 2-0 lead in the five match series and will have an opportunity to secure the series with another victory.
Kishan's continued absence presents a challenge for India's batting combination, particularly in the top order, where the team has been looking for consistency and aggressive stroke play.
Ishan Kishan Continues Recovery From Injury
Kishan sustained a low grade strain in his right adductor muscles during the opening T20I against New Zealand. The injury affected his availability for the second match, and he has now been ruled out of the third game as well.
According to the BCCI, the left handed batter is making progress, but the medical team continues to monitor his recovery. The team management has decided against rushing him back before he is fully fit.
A right adductor strain affects muscles on the inner side of the thigh. For a cricketer, the injury can affect running between the wickets, quick changes of direction and movement while batting or fielding.
Although the latest update offers some encouragement about Kishan's recovery, the BCCI has not confirmed a specific date for his return. His availability for the remaining matches will depend on his fitness and the medical team's assessment.
India Face a Challenge at Number Three
Kishan's absence has created an important selection question for India, especially regarding the number three batting position.
During the first T20I, Kishan was unable to bat in his usual role because of the injury. India subsequently experimented with different combinations in an effort to maintain the team's aggressive approach.
Teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was given an opportunity at number three in the second match. However, he was dismissed for four runs from eight deliveries, leaving the team with another selection decision ahead of the Wellington contest.
Sooryavanshi remains a possible option for the third T20I, although the final playing eleven will depend on the team's assessment of conditions, player roles and the overall batting combination.
India could also consider adjusting the order of their established batters rather than making several changes to the lineup. The management will need to balance the desire for an attacking start with the importance of building partnerships during the middle overs.
Kumar Kushagra Remains With the Squad
The BCCI has confirmed that wicketkeeper batter Kumar Kushagra will continue with the Indian squad for the third T20I.
Kushagra was brought in as cover after Kishan was ruled out of the second match. His continued presence gives the team another wicketkeeping option while the injured player completes his rehabilitation.
However, being included as cover does not automatically guarantee a place in the playing eleven. The team management will make its selection based on the available players and the requirements of the match.
Sanju Samson is another important wicketkeeping option in the squad. India therefore have alternatives available while they wait for Kishan to regain full fitness.
India Look to Seal the Series in Wellington
India have made a strong start to the five match T20I series, winning the first two games against New Zealand to establish a 2-0 advantage.
The opening match featured a successful chase of 226, giving India a four wicket victory in Christchurch. India followed that performance with another four wicket win in the second T20I, strengthening their position in the series.
A victory in Wellington would give India an unassailable 3-0 lead and secure the series with two matches still remaining. New Zealand, meanwhile, will be looking to win on home soil and prevent India from taking an even stronger advantage.
The third match is therefore important for both sides. India will aim to maintain their winning momentum despite Kishan's absence, while New Zealand will look to exploit any uncertainty in the visitors' batting combination.
