India captain Hardik Pandya said on Thursday that Prithvi Shaw will have to wait for his chance because Shubman Gill has performed admirably and will open the series against New Zealand with Ishan Kishan.
Shaw recently returned to the national team after impressing in domestic cricket. The right-hander batter, known for his aggressive approach, is a compelling option for India.
Pandya, on the other hand, stated on the eve of the match that Gill, who has been in sensational form in ODIs, hitting three hundreds and a double tonne in his last four innings, will open the innings.
Gill, 23, made his debut during the Sri Lanka series and has only played three T20Is, scoring 58 runs at a strike rate of 131.81.
"Shubman has performed admirably and will begin the series. "The way he bats and was already a part of the T20 team," Hardik said during the pre-match press conference.
The all-rounder also stated that he enjoys bowling with the new ball. Hardik Pandya opened the bowling for India on Tuesday after Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj were rested for the third ODI against New Zealand.
Prior to the ODIs against New Zealand, he bowled with the new ball in the Sri Lanka T20Is, impressing everyone with his swing.
"I've always liked bowling with a new ball. For many years, whenever I bowled in the nets, I chose the new ball. I'm used to the old ball, so I don't feel the need to practise as much with it. It has aided Pandya in match situations," he said.
"I had to be ready because our two main bowlers were rested in the previous game. But it's never been about pressure; half of the time pressure is removed if you prepare well," he adds.
When asked about the inclusion of Jitesh Sharma in the squad, the skipper also stated that wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma was rewarded for his IPL performances.
"Jitesh has been recognised for his efforts. Unfortunately, Sanju Samson was injured, so Jitesh was given the opportunity "He stated.
The 29-year-old is not taking the opponent lightly either.
"Of course, we'll try to win. New Zealand is a strong team in both T20Is and ODIs. They are constantly challenging you. To beat them, we'll have to be at our best," Hardik said.