India sidelines Ishan Kishan for third T20I against New Zealand

India has opted to rest wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan for the third T20 International against New Zealand, treating his injury as a precautionary matter rather than a serious concern. The 28-year-old suffered a right adductor strain during the opening match of the five-game series last week.

Morne Morkel, India's bowling coach, stated that Kishan is progressing well and will participate in training sessions but remains unavailable for selection in the upcoming fixture. "Ishan is doing well. He will be training today. For tomorrow, I think he is not available for selection, just as a precaution," Morkel said during the pre-match media briefing.

The right adductor muscle group, located on the inner thigh, requires careful management to prevent aggravation. Kishan's absence from the second T20I saw teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi earn a place in the playing eleven, a selection that has highlighted India's batting depth.

The Indian team holds a commanding 2-0 lead in the series with uncapped wicketkeeper Kumar Kushagra added to the squad as cover for Kishan, providing the selectors with additional flexibility for the remaining matches.