India registered a commanding seven-wicket victory in the second T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand while chasing a stiff target of 209. Despite the comfortable result, captain Suryakumar Yadav made an honest admission about feeling momentarily angry during the powerplay phase of the chase.
The Indian skipper later praised Ishan Kishan for his fearless batting, which completely changed the course of the match after India found themselves in early trouble at 6 for 2. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Suryakumar revealed that although he was briefly frustrated about not getting the strike early on, he quickly settled in and focused on reading the conditions.
“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. I was angry he wasn’t giving me a strike in the powerplay but I was able to get a hold of the conditions,” he said.
Bowling Effort And Calm Atmosphere In Camp
While talking about his own form, Suryakumar Yadav highlighted the preparation he had put in before the game and also credited the bowlers for pulling things back when New Zealand looked set for a much bigger total. He felt that the collective effort with the ball made a big difference and allowed the batters to play with freedom later.
“I’ve been batting well in the nets, had a good break, and had a good practice session before the game too. Incredible effort with the ball. When they were 110 for 2, I thought it would be a 230-odd total, but all the bowlers chipped in and took responsibility. 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.”
Earlier in the match, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 208 for 6, thanks to fighting knocks from their captain and a left-handed batter who played aggressively in the middle overs. Their innings had momentum, but India’s bowlers shared responsibilities well and picked up wickets at regular intervals to restrict the final score.
Dominant Chase Puts India In Control
In response, India came out with clear attacking intent. Ishan Kishan smashed a rapid half-century off just 21 balls as India reached 75 for 2 at the end of the powerplay, which became the second-highest powerplay score for India against New Zealand. His explosive knock of 76 off 32 balls ended in the 10th over, breaking a 122-run partnership.
After that, Suryakumar Yadav anchored the chase with an unbeaten 82 off 37 balls, while Shivam Dube supported him with a brisk unbeaten 36 off 18 deliveries. India finished the chase in just 15.2 overs, sealing a dominant win and taking a 2-0 lead in the high-voltage T20I series against New Zealand.
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