INDvsNZ 2nd T20I: India Chase 209 in Just 15.2 Overs vs NZ, Breaking Pakistan’s Record
India chase 209 with 28 balls spare, breaking Pakistan's record.
India registered a record-breaking run chase to defeat New Zealand by seven wickets in the second T20 International and take a 2–0 lead in the five-match series on Friday. Led by a scintillating unbeaten knock from captain Suryakumar Yadav, India chased down a daunting target of 209 with 28 balls to spare, setting a new benchmark in men’s T20I cricket.
With the emphatic victory, India broke Pakistan’s record for the fastest successful chase of a 200-plus total by a full-member nation. Pakistan had previously chased 205 against New Zealand with 24 balls remaining in Auckland in 2025. India’s effort on a batting-friendly surface in Raipur now stands as the most dominant such chase in terms of balls remaining.
Suryakumar Yadav roared back to form with an unbeaten 82 off just 37 balls, marking his first half-century after 23 innings. He was well supported by Ishan Kishan, who justified his recall to the national side with a blistering 76 off 32 deliveries. The pair took control of the chase after India lost Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson early, steadying the innings before launching a decisive counterattack.
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Kishan’s aggressive knock, laced with 11 fours and four sixes, put New Zealand’s bowlers under sustained pressure and swung momentum firmly in India’s favour. Suryakumar then ensured there were no hiccups, combining timing with innovation to dismantle the attack. Shivam Dube added the finishing touches with an unbeaten 36 off 18 balls as India sealed the chase in just 15.2 overs.
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 208 for six, riding on contributions from Rachin Ravindra, who scored 44, and skipper Mitchell Santner, who remained unbeaten on 47. The visitors got off to a brisk start, but India clawed back in the middle overs through Kuldeep Yadav’s timely strikes and disciplined bowling.
The comprehensive win further strengthens India’s momentum ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, with key players finding form at the right time. With three matches remaining in the series, New Zealand will now be under pressure to respond and keep the contest alive.
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