In the fifth Twenty20 International against New Zealand at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Ishan Kishan was the star player. The southpaw scored his first T20I century with a scorching knock when he was slotted in at number three. He led India to a huge 271 in the first innings by smashing 103 off 43 deliveries and sharing a commanding 137-run partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav.

Despite some opposition, India managed to secure a 46-run victory and end the series 4-1. Following the game, Suryakumar was questioned about the growing controversy surrounding Sanju Samson's selection, including whether the Kerala batsman would start alongside Abhishek Sharma at the top of the T20 World Cup 2026 or whether the team management would favor Kishan following such a strong performance. Notably, Kishan continuously showed promise with the bat, while Samson had a poor series, scoring just 46 runs against New Zealand.

The selectors must decide between Kishan and Samson for the opening position since Tilak Varma is expected to bat at No. 3. Speaking about the situation, Suryakumar acknowledged that the choice is difficult but affirmed that clarification will be provided prior to India's opening World Cup match against the USA on February 7 at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

As of right now, we know nothing about Tilak Varma. However, we learned that he has begun batting and is looking good. It's undoubtedly a good headache if he returns, but with fifteen of us, we already have a good headache. Every player is competent enough to be included in that starting lineup. After the game, Sanju told the broadcasters, "You will definitely get to know on the 7th if Ishan is in or Sanju (laughs)."

Suryakumar was worried about his own performance when he first joined the series. After a bad run of form, many questioned whether he should be in the starting lineup, but the Mumbai batsman supported himself and won the Player of the Series trophy at the end of the series.