3 Indian players who may be benched throughout NZ T20I series

India's five-match T20I series against New Zealand begins on October 22, 2026, with all matches scheduled to start at 12:30 PM IST. The series is part of a longer tour that also includes five ODIs and two Tests, concluding on December 1, 2026.

Shreyas Iyer leads the 16-man India T20I squad, with Tilak Varma named as vice-captain. New Zealand are led by Mitchell Santner. With only 11 spots available in any playing XI, at least five squad members will miss out across the series, making competition for places intense.

Here are three Indian players who may be benched throughout NZ T20I series:

1. Prince Yadav

Prince Yadav has taken 10 wickets across nine T20I appearances for India. He was part of the squad for the preceding T20I series against West Indies and featured in two of those matches, picking up one wicket while remaining economical. However, with a 16-member squad and several bowling options available, Yadav faces stiff competition for a place in the playing XI throughout the New Zealand series. His limited opportunities in the West Indies games and the presence of other established bowlers in the squad make it difficult for him to hold a regular spot.