Fearless Ishan Kishan Delights Ashwin With Match-Winning T20I Return

Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan delivered a blistering performance for India against New Zealand in the second T20I on Friday, producing a match-winning knock that drew widespread praise from former players and fans alike. Chasing a challenging target of 209, India recovered from early trouble to register a commanding seven-wicket victory with 28 balls to spare.

India’s chase began on a shaky note as the team lost two wickets for just six runs. Kishan, however, steadied the innings with an aggressive yet controlled approach, counterattacking the New Zealand bowlers and shifting the momentum decisively in India’s favour. His partnership with Captain Suryakumar Yadav proved decisive, as the duo dismantled the opposition attack with a combination of timing and power.

Kishan scored 76 runs off just 32 deliveries, striking 11 boundaries and four sixes in a display of fearless batting. Suryakumar complemented him perfectly, remaining unbeaten on 82 off 37 balls, as India comfortably chased down the target. The pair’s stand ensured there were no further setbacks after the early collapse, underlining India’s depth and firepower in the middle order.

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Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin lauded Kishan’s approach, calling it a reflection of his recent domestic form. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised Kishan’s freedom and intent, noting that he chose to continue attacking rather than slow down in pursuit of personal milestones. He highlighted the batter’s fearless mindset as a key factor separating him from others at the international level.

The match also marked Kishan’s return to the national team after an absence since 2023. Reflecting on his innings, the left-hander said his focus was on maintaining a strong scoring rate during the powerplay while staying in a positive headspace. He emphasised backing his strengths and playing percentage shots, particularly when chasing a total in excess of 200, a strategy that ultimately paid off for India.

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