-1769913267712.webp)
- By Gurmeet Batra
- Sun, 01 Feb 2026 08:06 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
India vs New Zealand T20Is: India captain Suryakumar Yadav downplayed the significance of Ishan Kishan keeping wickets ahead of Sanju Samson in the fifth T20I against New Zealand, stating that the wicket-keeping duties were always meant to be shared in the series.
Samson's belligerent batting approach in the final match yielded just six runs off six balls, whereas Kishan's astonishing century has strengthened his claim to be considered India's premier wicketkeeper-batter for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
"I think both the keepers were playing since game 1, as Tilak was not available. So, we had decided before the series that three games would be kept by Sanju Samson and two games would be kept by Ishan," Suryakumar said during the post-match press conference.
"Ishan unfortunately, missed the last game because of a niggle, but he was going to keep wickets in this match anyway," he added.
Suryakumar revealed that Tilak Varma, currently recovering from testicular surgery, is set to rejoin the team in Mumbai for India's two practice matches.
"Tilak Varma has been shaping well. I heard he is playing 2 games in Bombay on the 2nd and the 4th. I think 2 games are enough. I spoke to him yesterday only. He has started batting, bowling, fielding and everything. So, hopefully, we should have him soon," he said.
Suryakumar said all-rounder Washington Sundar, recovering from a rib injury, is making good progress with his rehabilitation.
"I think Washy is also doing well. We spoke to both of them (Tilak and Washington) yesterday. Tilak is much better. Washy has almost started his bowling and batting. He is also looking good. Hopefully, we get him back soon," he added.