New Zealand produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat India by 50 runs in the fourth T20I at Visakhapatnam, keeping the series alive with a statement win. After posting a formidable 215/7, the visitors backed it up with disciplined bowling to bowl India out for 165, despite a blistering counter-attack from Shivam Dube, who smashed 65 off just 23 balls in a losing cause.
Batting first, New Zealand made full use of a batting-friendly surface and short boundaries. Their top order set the tone early, attacking the Indian seamers in the powerplay and ensuring the run rate never dipped. The openers provided a strong start before the middle order took over, maintaining momentum through smart shot selection and calculated aggression. Regular boundaries kept the pressure firmly on India, forcing constant changes in bowling plans.
The backbone of New Zealand’s innings was their ability to accelerate in phases. Even when India managed to break partnerships, the incoming batters immediately picked up the tempo. The death overs proved particularly costly for the hosts, as New Zealand finished strongly to cross the 200-run mark. The final total of 215/7 reflected both intent and execution, giving their bowlers a significant cushion.
India’s chase began shakily, with early wickets denting their hopes of a smooth pursuit. New Zealand’s bowlers were sharp from the outset, exploiting any early movement and sticking to hard lengths. The required run rate climbed quickly as India struggled to find rhythm in the first half of the innings. With wickets falling at regular intervals, the chase threatened to fizzle out well before the halfway stage.
Just as the contest appeared to be slipping away, Shivam Dube launched a stunning counter-attack that briefly reignited Indian hopes. Dube went after the bowlers with fearless intent, clearing the boundary at will and reducing the equation at a remarkable pace. His 65 off 23 balls included a flurry of sixes and showcased his ability to change games rapidly, especially against pace and spin alike.
However, Dube found little support at the other end. New Zealand responded smartly by tightening their lines and mixing up their pace, refusing to offer easy scoring options. Once Dube was dismissed, the outcome was effectively sealed. India’s lower order couldn’t sustain the momentum, and the innings folded for 165, handing New Zealand a comprehensive victory.
New Zealand’s bowling effort stood out for its discipline and adaptability. Rather than relying solely on pace, they used slower balls, wide yorkers, and clever field placements to choke India’s scoring options. Their spinners also played a key role in the middle overs, applying pressure and forcing risky shots.
The win not only ended India’s dominance in the series but also sent a strong message about New Zealand’s resilience in high-scoring T20 contests. For India, the defeat exposed concerns around death bowling and middle-order stability, areas that will demand attention ahead of the remaining matches.
As the series progresses, this match could prove to be a turning point. New Zealand have regained confidence and momentum, while India will be keen to regroup quickly and ensure this setback doesn’t derail their campaign.
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