India and New Zealand kick off their five-match T20I series today with the first game set to be played in Nagpur. With the ICC T20 World Cup preparations in focus, fans are keen to know the match timing, venue, TV channels and live streaming details—especially where it can be watched for free.
Here’s everything you need to know about the opening T20I between India and New Zealand.
IND vs NZ 1st T20: Match Details at a Glance
- Match: India vs New Zealand 1st T20I
- Date: January 21
- Time: 7:00 PM IST (Toss at 6:30 PM)
- Venue: Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium
Read More :- Glenn Phillips Hits Maiden ODI Hundred Against India During IND vs NZ 3rd ODI 2026
Where to Watch IND vs NZ 1st T20 Live on TV
Cricket fans can watch the first T20I live on the Star Sports Network, which holds the official television broadcast rights in India. The match will be available across multiple Star Sports channels in different regional languages.
IND vs NZ Live Streaming: How to Watch Online for Free
For viewers who prefer digital streaming, the match will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website. Select users will be able to watch the game free of cost, while others can access the stream with an active subscription. The platform supports mobile, tablet, laptop and smart TV viewing.
India Look to Bounce Back Under Suryakumar Yadav
After a disappointing ODI series loss, India shift focus to the shortest format with a fresh approach. Suryakumar Yadav takes charge of the T20 side, bringing his trademark aggressive mindset and fearless batting philosophy.
With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, the series offers a crucial opportunity to test combinations, assess player form and build momentum at home.
New Zealand Aim to Continue Winning Momentum
New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, arrive high on confidence after their ODI success. Known for their discipline and adaptability, the visitors will be eager to challenge India once again, even in Indian conditions.
Full Schedule: India vs New Zealand T20I Series
- 1st T20I: Nagpur
- 2nd T20I: Raipur
- 3rd T20I: Guwahati
- 4th T20I: Visakhapatnam
- 5th T20I: Thiruvananthapuram
Read More :- IND vs NZ: Arshdeep Singh returns for series decider after selection debate
Squads for IND vs NZ 1st T20I
India: Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (Vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Ishan Kishan (WK), Ravi Bishnoi.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (Captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway (WK), Jacob Duffy, Jack Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Ish Sodhi.
With a new captain, World Cup preparations, and the promise of high-quality T20 cricket, the IND vs NZ first T20 in Nagpur shapes up as a must-watch contest.
