The fourth match of New Zealand’s tour of India will be played today, January 28, at the ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, with the action set to begin at 7:00 PM IST.
India enter the fourth ODI with confidence, bolstered by a solid home record and a deep, versatile batting lineup. Ishan Kishan has come to be a strong contender for India’s T20 XI after leveraging Tilak Varma‘s injury and scoring crucial runs against New Zealand despite batting at No. 3. With Sanju Samson struggling for runs in the first three T20Is, there has been speculation about a potential switch once Tilak returns, but the delay in his rehabilitation has provided Samson a critical window to recapture form as an opener. Abhishek Sharma has been brilliant throughout the series, while Suryakumar Yadav‘s form at the right time, just before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, has given the Men in Blue solidity and explosive punch in the middle overs. Towards the death as well, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, and Rinku Singh are reliable as well. The spin trio led by Varun Chakravarthy might be important on the Visakhapatnam pitch.
Furthermore, despite losing the series and missing key first-choice players, New Zealand have strengthened their squad with the additions of James Neesham and Lockie Ferguson, with Finn Allen expected to join only before the final T20I. New Zealand arrive as a strong and balanced unit capable of fighting India in every aspect. Their batting strength comes from players like Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra, who can shift momentum rapidly, while Mitchell Santner‘s all-around qualities provide critical depth. The Kiwi bowling attack, which is predicated on discipline and effective variations, will look to strike early and apply pressure in the middle overs. If New Zealand can make important breakthroughs and effectively counter India’s spin threat, they will be able to push the hosts in a high-stakes game.
Head-to-Head:
India and New Zealand have encountered each other 28 times in the format, with India leading with 15 victories to the Kiwis’ 10. Three matches between the two teams ended with no results.
Where to watch:
OTT: JioHotstar
