India batter Tilak Varma suffered an injury scare during the third T20I against New Zealand in Wellington on Tuesday after his left knee appeared to get stuck in the turf while attempting to stop the ball. The left-handed batter subsequently walked off the field alongside the team physiotherapist, with wicketkeeper Kumar Kushagra coming on as his substitute fielder. The incident raised concerns within the Indian camp, although the initial signs did not immediately indicate the severity of the injury.
Tilak Varma’s fitness could be important for India as they look to maintain their momentum in the ongoing T20I series. India won the toss and elected to bowl first, retaining their playing XI for the third encounter. New Zealand, meanwhile, made three changes, bringing in Kyle Jamieson, Matthew Fisher and Adam Milne in place of Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry and Nathan Smith.
The injury scare occurred on the second delivery of the third over. Finn Allen punched a good-length delivery from Bhuvneshwar Kumar towards extra cover and attempted a quick single. Varma slid across the turf to stop the ball, but his left knee appeared to get stuck as he tried to throw towards the bowler’s end.
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Although Varma missed the stumps, Allen returned safely to his crease. Replays suggested that even a direct hit would not have resulted in a run-out. Varma then consulted the team physiotherapist before leaving the field, allowing Kushagra to take his place.
Tilak Varma is off the field with Physio. #NZvsIND #TeamIndia https://t.co/rLVNsX0WGT
— Ankan Kar (@AnkanKar) October 27, 2026
Meanwhile, India made an encouraging start with the ball. Bhuvneshwar found swing and seam movement during the opening over, creating early pressure on the New Zealand batters.
Arshdeep Singh provided the first breakthrough by dismissing Tim Seifert for two runs. The New Zealand opener attempted to clear his front leg and attack a swinging delivery across the line but managed only a top edge. Axar Patel, positioned at backward point, ran in and completed a well-judged catch despite the windy conditions.
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New Zealand recovered from the early setback, reaching 58/1 at the end of the powerplay. Finn Allen contributed 24 off 16 deliveries, while Mitchell played aggressively after a cautious start, scoring an unbeaten 24 off 14 balls, including three fours and a six. Varma’s condition remained a key concern for India as the match progressed.
