Shreyas iyer india t20i squad: The Indian cricket team has received a significant boost ahead of the upcoming T20 International series against New Zealand, with Shreyas Iyer making a long-awaited return to the shortest format. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the updated squad for the five-match T20I series starting January 21, confirming that Shreyas Iyer has been added to the India T20I setup after a gap of nearly 25 months.
The inclusion of Iyer comes at a crucial time as India prepares for a packed international calendar, and his return has already sparked widespread discussion among fans and experts alike. The move also highlights the selectors’ intent to strengthen the middle order with experienced players ahead of major global tournaments.
Shreyas Iyer Replaces Injured Tilak Varma
The 31-year-old batter has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for Tilak Varma, who suffered an injury during the Vijay Hazare Trophy last week. Tilak’s absence forced the selectors to look for a reliable alternative, and Iyer’s experience at the international level made him the obvious choice.
Shreyas Iyer, currently serving as India’s vice-captain in the ODI format, brings stability, composure, and proven match-winning ability. His return to the Shreyas iyer india t20i squad marks an important step in his journey back across all formats after injury setbacks and intense competition for places.
Ravi Bishnoi Comes in for Washington Sundar
Alongside Iyer’s comeback, leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi has also been included in the T20I squad. Bishnoi replaces all-rounder Washington Sundar, who sustained a rib injury during the first One Day International against New Zealand on January 11 in Vadodara.
According to the BCCI’s official statement, Sundar complained of pain in the lower left rib area while bowling. He was immediately taken off the field for further medical evaluation and scans. Although Sundar showed grit by coming out to bat despite the injury, the medical team has advised rest, and his participation in the T20I series has been ruled out for now.
Bishnoi’s inclusion adds variety to India’s bowling attack. Known for his pace through the air and ability to bowl in pressure situations, the 26-year-old leg-spinner is expected to play a key role, especially on batting-friendly pitches.
Iyer’s Last T20I Appearance and Career Record
Shreyas Iyer last featured in a T20 International in December 2023 against Australia in Bengaluru. In that match, he showcased his class with a fluent 53 off 37 balls, helping India secure a comfortable six-wicket victory. Since then, injuries and team combinations kept him out of the T20 setup, despite strong performances in domestic cricket and the ODI format.
Over the course of his T20I career, Iyer has played 51 matches for India. He has accumulated 1,104 runs, including eight half-centuries, establishing himself as a dependable middle-order batter who can anchor an innings or accelerate when required.
Shreyas Iyer T20I Career at a Glance
| Matches | Runs | Half-Centuries | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | 1,104 | 8 | 67 |
His return to the Shreyas iyer india t20i squad is expected to add depth and experience, especially with several young players still finding their footing at the international level.
Washington Sundar Injury Update
Washington Sundar’s injury occurred during New Zealand’s innings in the first ODI. While bowling his fifth over, he appeared uncomfortable and soon left the field. Despite the discomfort, Sundar later came out to bat, showing remarkable commitment to the team. However, medical scans revealed a rib strain, prompting the BCCI medical team to recommend rest and further assessment before he resumes competitive cricket.
Sundar had figures of 5 overs for 27 runs in the match before the injury interrupted his spell. His absence opens the door for Bishnoi to stake a claim in the playing XI during the T20 series.
India Tour of New Zealand 2026: Full Schedule
The India tour of New Zealand includes three ODIs and five T20 Internationals, spread across multiple venues in India. The series promises high-intensity cricket as both teams test their combinations ahead of future ICC events.
ODI Series Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time |
| 1st ODI | 11 January 2026 | Vadodara | 1:30 PM |
| 2nd ODI | 14 January 2026 | Rajkot | 1:30 PM |
| 3rd ODI | 18 January 2026 | Indore | 1:30 PM |
T20 International Series Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time |
| 1st T20I | 21 January 2026 | Nagpur | 7:00 PM |
| 2nd T20I | 23 January 2026 | Raipur | 7:00 PM |
| 3rd T20I | 25 January 2026 | Guwahati | 7:00 PM |
| 4th T20I | 28 January 2026 | Wankhede | 7:00 PM |
| 5th T20I | 31 January 2026 | Trivandrum | 7:00 PM |
What Iyer’s Comeback Means for India
Shreyas Iyer’s return is more than just a replacement decision. It reflects the team management’s confidence in his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to the fast-paced demands of T20 cricket. With his proven record and leadership experience, Iyer is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s middle order during the series.
As fans eagerly await the first T20I on January 21, all eyes will be on how Shreyas Iyer seizes this opportunity. His performance could well determine his long-term place in the Shreyas iyer india t20i squad, making the New Zealand series a defining chapter in his T20I career.
