After a resounding victory in Nagpur, Team India will look to consolidate their lead in the second T20I in Raipur. Suspense remains over Axar Patel's injury, which could lead to significant changes in the playing XI.

IND vs NZ 2nd T20I Predicted 11

IND vs NZ 2nd T20I: The second T20 match between India and New Zealand will be played in Raipur on Friday. Team India has already taken a lead in the series after winning the first match in Nagpur by 48 runs and will now be looking to consolidate this lead. Under Suryakumar Yadav's captaincy, the Indian team appears to be brimming with confidence. However, a major change is expected in India's playing XI before this match.

Axar Patel's injury becomes a concern.

Ahead of the second T20I, a concern has emerged for Team India. All-rounder Axar Patel injured his finger while fielding in the first match and was forced to leave the field. The BCCI has yet to provide any official information regarding his fitness. If Axar is unable to play in the second T20I, Kuldeep Yadav could be included in the playing XI, further strengthening the spin attack.

Nagpur win boosts India's morale.

Abhishek Sharma was the hero of India's victory in the first T20. He put the New Zealand bowlers on the back foot by smashing 84 runs in just 35 balls. Meanwhile, Rinku Singh's unbeaten 44 off 20 balls finally cemented the score. Now, the opening pair will be expected to provide a similar explosive start in the second match.

Strong batting from the opening to the middle order

In terms of the batting order, Sanju Samson is likely to open the innings with Abhishek Sharma once again. Ishan Kishan didn't perform well in the first match, but being part of the T20 World Cup squad, he may get another chance. Captain Suryakumar Yadav showed signs of returning to form with his 32 runs in the first match. Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube will provide balance in the middle order.

Expectations from Bumrah-Arshdeep in bowling

If Axar is out, Rinku Singh will have even more responsibility as a finisher. In bowling, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Varun Chakravarthy could play important roles alongside Kuldeep Yadav. Bumrah and Arshdeep, in particular, will be expected to provide early wickets with the new ball.

India's probable playing 11 for the second T20I

Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dubey, Rinku Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy