India vs New Zealand, 4th T20 match set to be played on Potinamallayya Palem Stadium
India vs New Zealand, both the teams will face off in the fourth T20 match at Potinamallayya Palem on January 28, 2026. India currently leads the series 3-0, having won the first three matches in this five-match series. They are dominating the series as they prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026.
India aims to extend their winning streak in this fourth T20 International at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium. The home team is in control, while New Zealand struggles to find a way to improve before the World Cup. The series has been one-sided so far, with India excelling in every aspect of the game. Their aggressive batting and tight bowling display show that they are well-prepared and confident as they gear up for the international event.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has not had a smooth experience. Following their losses in the ODI series, the Black Caps have not settled into their rhythm in T20s. Their batting order has lacked consistency, and their bowlers have struggled against India’s aggressive top order, particularly during the powerplay. The fourth T20 international gives New Zealand a chance to regain some respect. Captain Mitchell Santner recognizes the challenge and will likely urge his team to perform better than they have thus far to avoid a clean sweep. His leadership will be crucial as New Zealand seeks to find their form.
“We definitely haven’t played our best cricket yet,” Santner said after the third T20 international. “There are things we need to work on quickly. The aim is to put together a complete performance.” For India, there’s little reason to change their lineup.
The top order is performing well, providing solid starts that allow the middle order to play more freely. The young players show maturity, while the experienced ones add stability when needed. The bowling attack has also been effective. The pace bowlers have taken early wickets in most matches, disrupting New Zealand’s rhythm, while the spinners have excelled in the middle overs.
This combination has proven successful on Indian pitches, and the team management will likely stick with it. The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium features a balanced pitch, offering some support to batsmen early on before aiding spinners later in the game. Evening dew may also impact play, making the toss significant. Teams that have chased at this venue have had an advantage, so captains might choose to bowl first.
This series is important for India, allowing them to test different combinations before the T20 World Cup. The team has been trying various batting and bowling setups with encouraging results. The challenge now for India will be maintaining their intensity even after securing the series. For New Zealand, the issues are serious. Their batting order has struggled against India’s pace and spin, losing wickets in clusters.
The middle order has failed to convert good starts into significant scores, increasing pressure on the lower order. The bowling lineup has also faced challenges. While there have been some promising moments, New Zealand has struggled to contain India’s aggressive batting, especially in the death overs. They must focus on improving their execution and staying disciplined to turn things around.
As the series approaches its conclusion, India will aim to continue their winning streak, while New Zealand will strive to avoid a whitewash. The fourth T20I will test the visitors’ character, as India looks to maintain their home dominance. With the T20 World Cup approaching, every game is crucial. The upcoming match at Potinamallayya Palem could provide valuable lessons for both teams.
