India will begin their T20I series against New Zealand in less than 72 hours of arriving in the country, giving Shreyas Iyer and his men little time to adjust to the conditions. The international schedule has been hectic for India, who have toured around the world in the last few months and have little time to recover.

Iyer, however, believes they have been accustomed to playing while travelling and does not want to use it as an excuse. India have weathered some tough spells in the last few months with the tour of Ireland and England, a tough home series against the West Indies and a gold-winning effort at the Asian Games in Japan.

When asked about acclimatisation and the limited time available before the opening match, Iyer said:

Before adding that the volume of cricket could also be beneficial, Iyer acknowledged:

India Look to Adapt to New Zealand Conditions

Eight or nine players in the Indian squad are visiting New Zealand for the first time, and with the conditions mostly favouring fast bowling, the team will have to adapt quickly.

Iyer said:

He believes competition for places can bring out the best in players, and with several batting options on the bench, he wants everyone to be on their toes.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Experience Could Help India

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s arrival gives India an experienced bowler in their ranks, something their bowling attack did not have after the IPL.

Iyer said:

The veteran’s experience in T20 cricket could be crucial to the series as conditions in New Zealand may offer pace and movement. Kumar’s experience will be vital to help the young guns in the Indian attack.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to Learn From the Tour

Young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is part of the touring group, but Iyer indicated that being with the team is an important learning curve for the young man rather than a guarantee of selection.

He said:

Iyer added that the tour will help Sooryavanshi to understand overseas conditions and be ready for the next time he gets the opportunity.

Iyer said:

Iyer Ready to Bat at Any Position

Iyer also stressed the need for flexibility in the batting order and, having played at number three and four, he is ready to bat at any position.

He said:

With New Zealand being familiar with their conditions, India will have to adapt quickly and play consistently throughout the series. Iyer believes whoever plays the better cricket on a given day will come out on top in the series.