Raipur erupted in cheers as Team India etched their name in T20 cricket folklore, overhauling New Zealand’s 209 for the quickest-ever win by a full-member side with 28 balls remaining. The second T20 clash showcased India’s batting firepower and strategic brilliance.
Opting to bowl first after New Zealand won the toss, India’s attack kept things tight. The Kiwis reached 208/6, powered by Santner’s 47 (27 balls) and Ravindra’s 44. Kuldeep starred with 2/xx, as Pandya, Rana, Chakaravarthy, and Dube shared the rest.
India’s response was electric. After slumping to 6/2, Kishan’s explosive 76 (32 balls – 11×4, 4×6) revived hopes. Suryakumar’s masterful unbeaten 82 (37 balls) and Dube’s 36* (18) sealed a 15.2-over triumph.
This feat tops the charts for fastest 200+ chases among full members, edging out Pakistan’s 24-ball spare effort (205 vs NZ, 2025) and Australia’s 23-ball record (vs WI, 2025). India now boasts six 200+ successful pursuits, trailing only Australia’s seven. Past heroics: 209 vs AUS 2023, 208 vs WI 2018, and more.
As the series progresses, this win highlights India’s evolution under Suryakumar, blending aggression with composure. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about the team’s potential in global T20 arenas.
