Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the third T20 International against New Zealand after sustaining a low-grade right adductor strain in the opening match of the series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Monday. Kishan missed the second T20I due to the injury, with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi taking his place in the team. Although the BCCI confirmed that Kishan is recovering well, he has yet to regain full match fitness and will miss the third encounter scheduled for October 27, 2026, in Wellington.
In its official statement, the BCCI said, “He is yet to regain match fitness and is ruled out of the third T20I to be played on October 27, 2026 in Wellington. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring Ishan's progress.” The medical team will continue to assess Kishan’s recovery before determining his availability for the remaining matches of the series. His absence is a setback for India as they look to maintain their strong performances against New Zealand.
Kumar Kushagra, who was drafted into the squad as Kishan’s replacement for the second T20I, will continue in the side for the third match at the Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Tuesday. India currently lead the five-match T20I series 2-0 and will aim to extend their advantage with another victory. With Kishan unavailable, Kushagra will have an opportunity to make his mark as India look to strengthen their position in the series.