India vs New Zealand: Arshdeep Scripts History in 2nd T20I

Arshdeep Singh delivered a historic performance in the second T20 International between India and New Zealand, becoming the leading Indian wicket-taker in a calendar year in the format. The match is being played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch as part of a five-match series.

Batting first, New Zealand reached 180 for five in their 20 overs. Arshdeep struck twice during the innings, a performance that carried him to the top of the Indian list for most T20I wickets in a single calendar year.

He now has 38 wickets in 2026 so far. This surpasses the 37 wickets taken by Bhuvneshwar Kumar in 2022. Arshdeep had also claimed 36 wickets in 2024, showing his consistency over the past few seasons.

In his four overs, Arshdeep conceded 33 runs and took the crucial wickets of Tim Seifert and Glenn Phillips. These dismissals helped India maintain control of the innings.

Globally, Arshdeep is now level with Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga at the second spot for most wickets in a calendar year. Only Ireland's Josh Little, with 39 wickets in 2022, has taken more.

Glenn Phillips was the standout New Zealand batter, scoring 70 off 43 balls with four fours and four sixes. Bevon Jacobs contributed 58 off 46 balls, including five fours and one six.

The pair put on 116 runs for the fourth wicket from 76 deliveries, which pushed New Zealand toward a respectable total. Finn Allen made 16 and Michael Bracewell scored 10.

India hold a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20 series after this encounter.