Suryakumar and Kishan Propel India to T20I Victory Over New Zealand
In a thrilling encounter on January 23, 2026, India secured a decisive victory against New Zealand in the second T20I held in Raipur. The home team chased down a target of 209 runs, winning by seven wickets in just 15.2 overs.
Suryakumar and Kishan Lead the Charge
Star players Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan were pivotal in India’s success. Suryakumar scored an impressive 82 runs off 42 balls, while Kishan contributed significantly with 76 runs from just 32 deliveries. Their powerful performances included a flurry of boundaries, with Kishan hitting multiple sixes and fours early in the innings.
New Zealand’s Innings
Earlier in the match, New Zealand batted first, posting a total of 208 runs for 6 wickets in 20 overs. Captain Mitchell Santner stood out for the visitors with an unbeaten 47 runs off 27 balls. Rachin Ravindra also made a notable contribution, scoring 44 runs off 26 balls before being dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav.
Key Moments of the Match
- New Zealand captain Santner scored 47 runs, helping set a strong target.
- India’s Shivam Dube took two wickets, effectively curtailing New Zealand’s scoring.
- Kuldeep Yadav’s impressive spell included 2 wickets for 35 runs.
- India’s chase was characterized by explosive batting, particularly from Suryakumar and Kishan.
Performance Summary
| Team | Score | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 208/6 | Mitchell Santner (47*), Rachin Ravindra (44) |
| India | 209/3 | Suryakumar Yadav (82), Ishan Kishan (76) |
This match not only showcased India’s batting prowess but also set the tone for the upcoming T20 World Cup preparations. The performance of both Suryakumar and Kishan will be crucial as India aims to build momentum in the series against New Zealand.
