IND vs NZ: Four Key takeaways for India from the T20I series

India won the series by 2-1 [Source: AP]

On Wednesday, India swatted aside New Zealand by a whopping 168-run margin to clinch the T20I series by 2-1. The hosts outplayed their counterparts across departments, registering one of the most historic victories in their rich T20I history. 

As the series has marked its conclusion, let's analyse and jot down the four key takeaways for India from the three-match affair. 

Shubman Gill: An epitome of versatility

Shubman Gill smashed a magnificent ton in Ahmedabad [Source: AP]

Despite playing some impressive knocks in the longer formats, Shubman Gill had an abysmal start to his T20I career, managing only 76 runs in his first five appearances. So, he desperately needed a match-winning performance under his belt to prove his worth in the shortest format. 

The Punjab batter finally clicked in the T20Is, amassing a belligerent 63-ball 126*, helping India emerge victorious in the decider in Ahmedabad. With this whirlwind knock, he showcased his versatility across formats, sealing his spot in the shortest format. 

Is time up for Ishan Kishan in T20Is?

Ishan has had an ordinary time with the bat [Source: AP]

Unlike Gill, Ishan Kishan couldn't capitalise on the opportunities, scoring only 24 runs across three outings. The batter's inability to counter quality spin was evident, as he was dismissed by Michael Bracewell on two occasions. 

Furthermore, Ishan has been miserable in T20Is of late, managing only 158 runs at a mediocre average of 13.16 in his last twelve outings. 

So, considering his inconsistency and poor batting form, he is unlikely to feature in the playing XI when India play their next T20I series. 

Hardik Pandya's love affair with the new ball

Hardik Pandya in action [Source: AP]

Despite having two potent swing bowlers, stand-in skipper Hardik Pandya introduced himself into the attack with the new ball in all three games. 

Although he was impressive, scalping five wickets at an average of 14.80, his preference for himself meant he underused Shivam Mavi throughout the series. 

So, if Pandya becomes the T20I captain in the near future, he must ensure clarity in his approach. If he sees himself as the opening bowler, he should drop someone like Mavi in favour of an x-factor in Umran Malik going forward. 

Is Sundar's rise a threat to Ravindra Jadeja's T20I spot?

Washington Sundar has been impressive [Source: AP]

Washington Sundar has enjoyed stellar success after making his international comeback from a long injury layoff. 

In the T20I series, the all-rounder showcased his incredible all-round attributes, scoring 60 runs and claiming three wickets at a surreal economy of 6.62. 

More importantly, the 23-year-old proved his mettle in Ravindra Jadeja's absence, thereby establishing himself as a potential threat to the veteran all-rounder's T20I spot. 

Considering his scintillating form of late, we reckon Jadeja will be under the pump to perform immediately after his comeback to white-ball cricket. 

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