India to take on Blackcaps in 1st T20

After thrashing the Blackcaps in One Day Internationals by 4-1, it's time to face them in the shortest format of the game. The first match of 3 match series will be played tomorrow in Wellington. Even though this format is an abbreviated version of ODIs, it involves different tactics. So the host will look to start afresh and get back to winning ways when they lock horns against men in blue.

NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand will hope the change of format helps them turn things around after an underwhelming ODI series. Their recent record is not the best. They have only won two of their last seven T20 Series and were whitewashed in UAE not too long ago.

Kane Williamson is likely to promote himself to open the inning alongside Colin Munro in the absence of Martin Guptill. His recent form is not what one would expect from a player of his caliber. His average is just above 32 in his last 10 ODI innings.

New Zealand Will be without the service of Trent Boult, who was the highest wicket taker of the ODI Series. James Neesham was named the late replacement for Guptill and could be a key cog in the wheel.

INDIA
Indian side would be riding high in the confidence. With Rohit and Dhawan at the top of the order, the tourist has a settled opening pair. Rishabh Pant is back in the team. With the presence of MS Dhoni, it would be interesting to see where Pant would fit in. Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya are in the team as all rounders.
India also have Have enough firepower in the bowling department in form of Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar
At the Westpac, Stadium teams have preferred to chase and out of nine times, eight times team chasing have won. It generally swings here and is a high scoring ground. It promises to be a nail biter.