Cricket enthusiasts in Thiruvananthapuram are riding a wave of euphoria ahead of the India vs New Zealand fifth T20I on January 31. The Greenfield Stadium showdown carries extra weight as a 2026 T20 World Cup preview, drawing massive crowds to Kerala’s green paradise.
Chartered flights will ferry both teams in around 5 PM Saturday, met by KCA’s ceremonial reception and armored escorts to hotels: India’s camp at Leela Raviz Kovalam, New Zealand’s at Hyatt Regency. The buzz intensifies around Sanju Samson, whose inclusion could ignite the home crowd like never before.
Recapping India’s T20 mastery—first win by 48 runs, second by seven wickets, third by eight—positions them for a whitewash. In Visakhapatnam’s fourth game, toss victory led to bowling first, eyeing 4-0. Bouncing back from ODI defeat, this series affirms India’s white-ball prowess.
Vigilant security blankets airports, hotels, and stadium precincts, with bolstered police for traffic and crowds. Pitch, logistics, and comforts are stadium-ready. From bustling markets to packed cafes, the city’s heartbeat syncs to cricket’s rhythm, culminating in a festive finale.