New Delhi, Jan. 20 -- New Zealand will miss the services of James Neesham in the first T20I against India as the star all-rounder chose Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) over national commitments. The development came in after Neesham extended his stay with Rajshahi Warriors in BPL 2025-26.

The BPL 2025-26, which is in its fag end, ends on January 23. Rajshahi Warriors are one of the four teams to enter the playoffs and will play Chattogram Royals in Qualifier 1 on January 20. In case Rajshahi Warriors lose in Qualifier 1, they will get to play in Qualifier 2 the next day.

On the other hand, India play New Zealand in five T20Is as a preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026, the first of which is on January 21. The second game to be played t...