Nagpur: Jamtha is set to turn into the epicentre of Indian cricket on Wednesday, January 21, as India begin their preparations for the home T20 World Cup with the opening match of a five-game T20 International series against New Zealand. As evening descends, floodlights will blaze and the white ball is expected to travel frequently into the stands, igniting a festive atmosphere at the VCA Stadium.
With a sold-out house, fans can expect fireworks from India’s explosive batting line-up. The likes of Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, captain Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and company are expected to light up the Nagpur sky with aggressive strokeplay, while bowlers from both sides will look to make their mark with pace, swing and sharp turn. Tickets vanished within just two hours of going on sale, underlining the frenzy surrounding the contest.
Gold Rate
21 Jan 2026
The match is scheduled to begin at 7 pm, but stadium gates will open at 4 pm to facilitate smooth entry. Despite traffic diversions and changes on approach roads by the Traffic Police, congestion remains a concern as a majority of spectators are expected to arrive from a single direction. Authorities have urged fans to opt for Metro and city bus services to ease the traffic load.
Spectators are expected to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere before the first ball is bowled. The Indian team reached Nagpur well ahead of time and has been putting in intense net sessions. New Zealand, meanwhile, have trained hard over the past three days and are keen to hit the ground running. Aware of India’s dominance in the rivalry, the Kiwis are leaving nothing to chance.
In 25 T20 encounters between the two sides, India have emerged victorious 14 times, while New Zealand have won 10, with one match ending in a tie. India will look to stretch that advantage, while the visitors aim to close the gap.
Jamtha continues to cement its status as one of India’s premier T20 venues. Wednesday’s match will be the 14th T20 International hosted here — the most by any Indian ground. India have won the last three T20Is played at this venue. Eden Gardens follows with 12 matches, while Dharamsala and Bengaluru have hosted 11 and 10 respectively, with Mumbai’s Wankhede hosting nine. The hosts will hope to maintain their impressive Jamtha record and send fans home delighted.
Adding to spectator comfort, the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) will provide free drinking water inside the stadium. However, spectators have been advised to carry cash for food purchases, as network and internet issues could hamper online payments.
To ensure smooth travel, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation will operate additional buses to and from Jamtha Stadium. The Maha Metro will also run extra services up to New Airport Metro Station. From there, the VCA will arrange shuttle buses for pickup and drop, along with shuttle services from designated parking areas near the UltraTech Cement Plant to the Jamtha Stadium T-point.
With top-class cricket, packed stands and a carnival-like buzz, Nagpur is all set for a memorable night under the lights.
