Raipur: India rode on explosive half-centuries from Ishan Kishan and skipper Suryakumar Yadav to defeat New Zealand by seven wickets in the second T20 International at Raipur on Tuesday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
Chasing a stiff target of 209, India suffered an early jolt as both openers departed within the first seven balls. Sanju Samson was dismissed for six, while Abhishek Sharma fell for a first-ball duck, leaving the hosts reeling at 6 for 2. The setback, however, proved brief as Ishan and Suryakumar launched a counter-attack that quickly turned the contest on its head.
Ishan smashed a scintillating 76 off just 32 deliveries, peppering the boundary and clearing the ropes with ease, while Suryakumar played the anchor with flair, finishing unbeaten on 82 from 37 balls. The pair stitched together a match-defining partnership that dismantled the New Zealand bowling and carried India through the powerplay with remarkable momentum. Shivam Dube provided the finishing touches with a brisk 36 off 18 balls as India overhauled the target comfortably.
For his match-winning knock and sharp work in the field, including a fine catch, Ishan Kishan was named Player of the Match.
Earlier, New Zealand posted 208 for six after opting to bat first. Rachin Ravindra set the tone with a rapid 44 from 26 balls, supported by lively contributions from the top order. India’s bowlers managed to rein in the scoring through the middle overs, but Mitchell Santner ensured a strong finish, remaining unbeaten on 47 from 27 deliveries to push the visitors beyond the 200 mark.
Reflecting on the turnaround after the early wickets, Suryakumar Yadav said, “I don’t know what Ishan had in the afternoon for lunch, but I have never seen someone batting that way at 6 for 2 and ending the powerplay on 60-odd. But that’s what we want for our batters to be able to express themselves.”
The India skipper added that the atmosphere in the dressing room is a key factor behind the team’s form. “I am really enjoying what’s happening right now. The mood is happy in the camp and I want to keep them in that space,” he said.
The comprehensive chase underlined India’s batting depth and confidence, placing the hosts firmly in control of the series as it moves forward.
