India's wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan seized his chance in the Suryakumar Yadav-led team, delivering a game-changing performance at number three during the second T20I against New Zealand in Raipur. With a daunting target of 209 runs, India faced early setbacks, losing Sanju Samson in the first over and Abhishek Sharma in the second, which put them under significant pressure.
Kishan quickly took charge, launching an aggressive counterattack. He shifted the game's momentum by scoring a blistering half-century off just 21 balls, which helped alleviate the pressure during a challenging chase.
The left-hander hit nine fours and two sixes to reach his fifty before ramping up the intensity even further. Ultimately, Kishan finished with an impressive 76 runs off 32 balls, including 11 fours and four sixes, showcasing his knack for finding gaps and clearing the boundary with ease.
Even though Ish Sodhi eventually got him out, Kishan had already made a significant impact. By the time he departed, India only needed 81 runs from 65 balls, leaving the rest of the batting lineup in a strong position to complete the chase.
Kishan's rapid 21-ball half-century also set a new record, surpassing Abhishek Sharma’s recently established mark for the fastest T20I fifty by an Indian against New Zealand.
This was Kishan’s first T20I half-century since November 2023. He earned his spot back in the team after a stellar season in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he led Jharkhand to victory. Kishan is stepping in for Tilak Varma in this series, as the young left-hander is currently sidelined due to injury.
Also Read | Big Boost For RCB! India Speedster Back in Action for WPL 2026 Playoffs
India Defeat New Zealand by 7 Wickets
Captain Suryakumar Yadav made a stunning comeback, scoring an impressive unbeaten 82 off just 37 balls, leading India to a seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second T20I. This win gives India a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, New Zealand set a challenging target of 208 for six. However, India chased it down with ease, finishing the game with 28 balls to spare, thanks to a fantastic 76 off 32 balls from Ishan Kishan alongside Suryakumar’s explosive innings.
The start was rocky for India, losing two wickets for a mere six runs in the second over, which made the chase seem daunting. Shivam Dube also contributed significantly, scoring a brisk 36 off 18 balls to keep the momentum alive.
For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra got things rolling with a quick 44 from 26 balls, while other top-order batsmen added valuable runs. Still, the Indian bowlers managed to rein in the scoring after the initial flurry.
Mitchell Santner provided a late surge for the visitors, finishing not out on 47 off 27 balls, which helped New Zealand surpass the 200-run mark. With this victory, India now leads the series 2-0, having also clinched the first match.
