India captain Suryakumar Yadav found his rhythm at the right time as India cruised to a seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second T20 International in Raipur on Friday.
With this win, India moved 2-0 ahead in the five-match India vs New Zealand T20 series, strengthening momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Clinical chase seals the contest
Chasing a stiff target of 209, India made the task look routine. The hosts finished the chase with 28 balls to spare, underlining their dominance.
Early on, the innings wobbled. India lost Sanju Samson in the opening over, followed by Abhishek Sharma for a first-ball duck. However, the setback did not last long.
Ishan Kishan sets the tone
Ishan Kishan took control immediately. He smashed a rapid 76 off 32 balls, striking 11 fours and four sixes to put pressure back on the New Zealand bowlers.
As a result, India regained control of the chase within the powerplay.
Suryakumar anchors the innings
From there, Suryakumar Yadav ensured India stayed on course. He finished unbeaten on 82, registering his first T20I fifty in 24 matches.
Although fortune favoured him at times—he survived three dropped chances, including one by New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner—the innings marked a timely return to form for the skipper.
At the finish, Shivam Dube added the final flourish with 36 not out off 18 balls, ensuring a comfortable win.
New Zealand post competitive total
Earlier, New Zealand posted 208 for 6 after being asked to bat.
Santner led from the front with an unbeaten 47, while Rachin Ravindra impressed with a brisk 44 off 26 balls.
India’s bowling unit managed the challenge despite resting Jasprit Bumrah and missing Axar Patel, who sat out with a thumb injury.
The series moves to Guwahati
Next, the action shifts to Guwahati, where the third T20 International will be played on Sunday.
With confidence building and the captain back among the runs, India will look to extend their lead and push New Zealand further on the back foot in the India vs New Zealand T20 series.
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India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav plays a shot during the second T20 International.
Photo: ESPN
