The five-match T20I series between India and New Zealand features a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young talents.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return, along with Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s inclusion, adds to the anticipation ahead of the series.

India and New Zealand are set to begin their five-match T20I series on October 22, with the opening match scheduled at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The series marks the beginning of a multi-format tour that will also feature five ODIs and two Tests, keeping both teams occupied over the coming weeks.

India will enter the contest under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership, while Mitchell Santner will captain New Zealand. With conditions in New Zealand expected to offer assistance to fast bowlers, the series presents an opportunity for several players to make a significant impact. From Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s much-anticipated return to the inclusion of teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, here are five players to watch out for.

Players to watch out for in NZ vs IND T20I series

1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar is one of the biggest talking points ahead of the series, with the experienced swing bowler returning to India’s T20I setup after a lengthy absence. Known for his ability to move the new ball in both directions, Bhuvneshwar could be particularly effective in New Zealand’s seam-friendly conditions.

The 36-year-old brings valuable experience to a relatively young bowling attack, especially with Jasprit Bumrah rested for the T20I leg. If the conditions offer early movement, Bhuvneshwar’s accuracy and ability to exploit the swing could make him a major threat to New Zealand’s top order.

2. Shreyas Iyer

Iyer will have an important responsibility as India’s captain throughout the five-match series. Along with contributing with the bat, he will need to manage a bowling attack featuring a blend of experienced campaigners and young fast bowlers.

Iyer’s decision-making will be particularly important in New Zealand, where conditions can favour seamers early in an innings. His ability to manage resources, make timely bowling changes and provide stability in the batting order will be closely watched as India begin their tour.

3. Vaibhav Suryavanshi

At just 15, Suryavanshi has earned a place in India’s senior T20I squad after impressing in youth cricket. The left-handed opener has already attracted attention for his fearless approach and ability to score quickly at the top of the order.

His inclusion offers an exciting opportunity to see how his aggressive batting translates to the international level. New Zealand’s pace and bounce will present a significant challenge, but Suryavanshi’s ability to attack from the outset could make him one of the most intriguing players to follow.

4. Mayank Yadav

Mayank Yadav brings express pace to India’s bowling attack and could be a valuable option on New Zealand’s fast, bouncy surfaces. The young pacer has built a reputation for generating high speeds and extracting bounce with his back-of-a-length deliveries.

With Bumrah rested, Mayank could have an important role to play in providing India with a genuine pace threat. His ability to trouble batters with sheer speed and carry could prove particularly useful at venues such as Hagley Oval.

5. Naman Dhir

Naman Dhir offers India an aggressive middle-order batting option alongside useful off-spin. The Punjab all-rounder has impressed in the IPL with his clean ball-striking and ability to accelerate the scoring rate.

His versatility could give India additional flexibility in their playing XI. Dhir can contribute valuable runs in the middle overs while providing an additional bowling option when required. Against New Zealand, his ability to maintain the scoring rate and adapt to different match situations could prove important.