IND vs NZ: Ishan Kishan Torments New Zealand, Breaks Abhishek Sharma’s Record Despite Missing a Century

Raipur: Making a long-awaited return to the Indian team, Ishan Kishan delivered a breathtaking performance against New Zealand in the second T20I, smashing a 21-ball fifty and scoring a scintillating 76 to put India firmly in control of the match.

India suffered an early setback, losing two wickets within the first seven balls. Walking in at No. 3 under pressure, Kishan counterattacked in spectacular fashion. He launched an assault on the New Zealand bowlers from the outset, hitting three boundaries and a six in the third over alone, and never allowed the visitors to settle.

Kishan reached his half-century in just 21 deliveries, the fastest fifty by an Indian batter against New Zealand in T20 internationals, surpassing the previous record held by Abhishek Sharma. His innings came to an end at 76 while attempting a big hit off Ish Sodhi, but by then the damage had already been done.

The left-hander faced only 32 balls, striking 11 fours and four sixes—14 boundaries in total—and shared a match-defining 122-run partnership off just 48 balls with captain Suryakumar Yadav. Their explosive stand effectively took the game away from New Zealand, as India went on to secure a comfortable seven-wicket victory.

Kishan’s comeback carries added significance. He last represented India in November 2023 and was subsequently dropped from the side, even losing his BCCI central contract. A century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, which helped Jharkhand clinch the title, paved the way for his return. Although a place in the playing XI initially seemed unlikely, an injury to Tilak Varma opened the door—an opportunity Kishan seized in emphatic style.

Despite falling short of a century, Kishan’s blistering knock proved decisive, reaffirming his credentials and marking a powerful statement on his return to international cricket.