Ishan Kishan joins elite list with sensational knock in second T20I vs New Zealand

Team India delivered a commanding performance in the second T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand, producing a clinical run chase to level the contest. The match, played in Raipur on January 23, saw the Black Caps post a formidable total of 208 runs, only for India to chase it down emphatically in 15.2 overs, winning by seven wickets.

The cornerstone of India’s chase was the explosive partnership between Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, with Kishan producing one of his most impactful T20I innings to date.

After India lost both openers early, Kishan walked in under pressure and immediately seized control of the innings. Displaying fearless intent and precise shot selection, the left-hander smashed 76 runs off just 32 balls, completely shifting momentum in India’s favour.

Elite powerplay record for Kishan

With his aggressive approach, Kishan achieved a rare milestone, becoming only the third non-opener from full-member nations to score a powerplay half-century in men’s T20Is. He joined an elite list featuring Dion Myers and Josh Inglis, underlining the uniqueness of his achievement.

Kishan was particularly destructive in the powerplay, scoring 56 runs off 23 deliveries. This effort now stands as the second-highest powerplay score by an Indian batter, behind only Abhishek Sharma’s 58 off 21 balls against England at the Wankhede Stadium.

Match-winning impact and Player of the Match honour

Kishan’s knock ensured that India maximised the powerplay phase, reducing the asking rate significantly and allowing the middle order to play with freedom. His partnership with Suryakumar Yadav ensured there were no further hiccups as India cruised to the target with more than four overs to spare.

Unsurprisingly, Kishan was named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings. Speaking after the game, the southpaw highlighted his mindset and approach during the chase.

“I was focusing on what I have to do today and keeping myself in a good headspace. When you know you’re batting well, it’s about watching the ball and staying calm. Chasing 208, it was important to maximise the powerplay, and that was my focus,” Kishan said during the post-match presentation.

What this means for India

Kishan’s performance not only helped India level the series but also strengthened his case as a reliable middle-order option in T20Is—especially in high-pressure run chases. With the series finely poised, his form could prove crucial as India looks to build momentum heading into the remaining matches.