Nagpur: Get ready for the roar of the crowd and the crack of the bat! After a long gap of three years, the iconic VCA Stadium in Jamtha is all set to welcome international cricket back in grand style in January 2026. India will take on New Zealand in a high-voltage T20 International on January 21 at 7 p.m., kicking off the five-match T20 series.
The clash comes just weeks before the ICC T20 World Cup, giving fans a golden opportunity to watch Team India fine-tune their firepower against the ever-competitive Kiwis. The series begins with three ODIs before switching to the explosive T20 format.
Gold Rate
21 Oct 2025
Behind the scenes, preparations are in full swing. VCA sources said seating upgrades, press box enhancements, and spectator facilities are being fast-tracked. “Everything will be ready well before match day. Fans can expect an even better viewing experience this time,” an official assured.
Jamtha last witnessed a T20 International on September 23, 2022, when India outplayed Australia in a shortened eight-over game. Interestingly, the upcoming match will be only the second T20 International between India and New Zealand at this venue, the last, played during the ICC T20 World Cup in 2016, saw India slump to a 47-run defeat.
But recent history favours the home team. India remains unbeaten in the last three T20Is played at Jamtha, a streak fans hope will continue.
Since hosting its first-ever T20I in December 2009 (India vs. Sri Lanka), the 45,000-capacity stadium has earned a reputation for high-scoring thrillers, and January 21 promises to be no different.
Nagpur, brace yourself. T20 magic is about to return!
