India Crush New Zealand in Raipur, Tighten Grip on Series

India continued their dominant run in the shortest format, registering a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second T20I on Friday to go 2-0 up in the five-match series.

Chasing a daunting target of 208, the hosts brushed aside early jitters to storm home at 209 for 3 in just 15.2 overs, sealing the contest with 28 deliveries to spare. Captain Suryakumar Yadav led from the front with a breathtaking unbeaten 82 off 37 balls, displaying his trademark flair and authority. Ishan Kishan played the perfect foil, smashing 76 off 32 balls to inject momentum into the chase, while Shivam Dube added the finishing touches with a brisk 36 off 18.

India’s pursuit appeared shaky early on when they lost two wickets for just six runs in the second over. However, the counter-attacking partnership between Kishan and Suryakumar completely shifted the balance, dismantling the New Zealand bowling attack and turning the match decisively in India’s favour.

Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 208 for 6 after opting to bat first. Left-hander Rachin Ravindra top-scored with a fluent 44 off 26 balls, as the visitors raced away to a strong start with valuable contributions from the top order.

India’s bowlers managed to pull things back during the middle overs, preventing the Black Caps from completely running away with the game. Captain Mitchell Santner then provided a late surge, remaining unbeaten on 47 off 27 balls to push New Zealand beyond the 200-run mark.

Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer with the ball for India, finishing with figures of 2 for 35, while the rest of the attack chipped in at crucial moments.

With this emphatic win, India have tightened their grip on the series, carrying strong momentum as the action moves ahead in the five-match contest.

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