India continued their commanding run in the T20I series against New Zealand with a 7-wicket victory in the 2nd T20I at Raipur, successfully chasing a challenging target of 209 to take a 2–0 lead in the five-match series. The chase was headlined by a spectacular batting display from Suryakumar Yadav (82) and Ishan Kishan (76), whose partnership completely tilted the game in India’s favour.
New Zealand, batting first, put India under pressure with a strong total. Their top order played with intent, capitalising on the true Raipur surface and short boundaries. Regular boundaries during the powerplay set the tone, while the middle order ensured momentum did not drop. Despite India pulling things back slightly in the death overs, New Zealand looked a competitive, if not daunting, total.
India’s chase began with clear intent. The openers ensured the required run rate never spiralled out of control, but it was the arrival of Suryakumar Yadav that truly changed the complexion of the match. From the outset, he played with trademark freedom, manipulating the field and punishing anything remotely loose. His ability to score all around the wicket dismantled New Zealand’s bowling plans.
At the other end, Ishan Kishan provided the perfect counterbalance. Where Suryakumar dazzled with innovation, Kishan relied on clean striking and sharp running between the wickets. The duo stitched together a decisive partnership, scoring at a rate that not only matched but exceeded the asking rate, turning a tense chase into a controlled assault.
New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs. Variations were picked early, lengths were punished, and fielding lapses only added to their woes. Attempts to slow the game with spin proved ineffective as both batters used the depth of the crease smartly to nullify turn and pace-off deliveries.
Suryakumar’s 82 was a statement innings — composed yet explosive — reminding everyone why he remains one of the most feared T20 batters in the world. Kishan’s 76 was equally valuable, showcasing maturity and shot selection in a high-pressure chase. By the time one of them fell, the match was firmly in India’s grasp.
India crossed the line with overs to spare, finishing at 209/3, underlining their batting depth and clarity of approach. The ease of the chase also highlighted India’s growing confidence as they build towards the T20 World Cup.
For New Zealand, the loss is a setback. Despite posting a strong total, their inability to break the Suryakumar–Kishan partnership exposed issues in execution under pressure. With the series slipping away, they will need quick tactical adjustments to stay competitive.
For India, the win reinforces their dominance at home and the strength of their batting core. With a 2–0 lead, momentum is firmly on their side as the series moves forward — and performances like this suggest they are peaking at just the right time.
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