Axar Patel Out, Kuldeep Yadav In? India's Likely XI for 2nd T20I vs New Zealand

• India faces New Zealand in the 2nd T20I on Friday, January 23, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.
• Axar Patel suffered a finger injury in the 1st T20I, making him a doubtful starter for the upcoming match.
• Kuldeep Yadav is a strong contender to replace Axar, having been India's highest wicket-taker in Asia Cup 2025.
• Harshit Rana, a fast bowler who can also bat, is another option for the team management as Axar's replacement.
• Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan will look to improve their batting performance in the 2nd T20I after failing to impress in the first.

Why It Matters: Axar Patel's injury opens door for Kuldeep Yadav or Harshit Rana in India's 2nd T20I XI.