“Maybe Even 300 Might Not Be Enough Against These Guys” Santner Highlights India’s Power

RAIPUR, CHHATTISGARH—The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium witnessed a T20 masterclass on Friday, January 23, 2026, as India chased down a daunting 209-run target with 28 balls to spare. The seven-wicket victory over New Zealand gives India a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Despite a disastrous start that saw both openers back in the pavilion within seven balls, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav orchestrated a record-breaking 122-run partnership that made the Kiwi total look subpar.

1. The Kishan Counter-Attack

With India reeling at 6/2, Ishan Kishan played what his captain described as an “incredible” and “fearless” innings.

• The Blitz: Kishan reached his fifty in just 21 balls, breaking Abhishek Sharma’s two-day-old record for the fastest T20I fifty by an Indian against New Zealand.
• Final Stats: 76 runs | 32 balls | 11 fours | 4 sixes.
• The Strategy: Knowing the dew would make the ball skip, Kishan maximized the powerplay, taking India to a staggering 75/2 by the end of the first six overs.

2. SKY Ends the 468-Day Drought

Captain Suryakumar Yadav silenced critics by recording his first T20I fifty in over a year.

• The Milestone: His last international half-century was against Bangladesh in October 2024.
• The Dominance: After a cautious start (10 off 10), SKY dismantled the New Zealand attack—specifically pacer Zakary Foulkes, who conceded 67 runs in just three overs.
• Final Stats: 82* runs | 37 balls | 9 fours | 4 sixes | SR: 221.62.

3. New Zealand’s Struggle with the “Dew Factor”

Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 208/6, thanks to cameos from Rachin Ravindra (44) and captain Mitchell Santner (47)*.

• The Bowling Effort: India’s spin duo, Kuldeep Yadav (2/35) and Varun Chakaravarthy (1/35), were crucial in the middle overs, pulling the Kiwis back from a projected total of 230+.
• Santner’s Admission: Post-match, a wry Mitchell Santner remarked, “Maybe even 300 might not be enough against these guys” on a wicket this true and an outfield this fast.

Match Summary: IND vs NZ (2nd T20I)