India secured a dominant 4-1 series victory after defeating New Zealand by 46 runs in the final T20I. While the Black Caps had managed a consolation win in the previous game, India returned to full strength in Thiruvananthapuram to re-establish total control.
India skipper, Suryakumar Yadav stated, “It’s been a long year, long wait. I’ve always been dreaming of this time. I’ve been following the same things, routines. I knew I wasn’t out of form. Very good series going into the World Cup.”
He further stated, “I knew my time would definitely come. If you win or lose, you take something from the game. We’ll sit down, analyse our games and start our campaign. It’s hard on the bowlers, this format, but at the same time you need to have a good plan.”
Arshdeep Singh spearheaded the bowling effort with a clinical five-wicket haul, ensuring the visitors could not keep up with the required rate despite a quick-fire 80 from Finn Allen.
The foundation of this massive win was a historic maiden century by Ishan Kishan. The left-hander stunned the New Zealand attack, smashing 103 runs off only 43 balls at a strike rate of nearly 240. His innings, fueled by 10 sixes and a 240 strike rate, propelled India to a massive total of 271 for 5.
Kishan expressed his delight, he emphasised his focus on the World Cup, stating, “I wanted to watch the ball and play accordingly. I think the plan in this team is to go for runs even if you’re close to the milestone. If the ball is there, you have to go for it and think about winning matches. I’m still not there, my focus is on the World Cup. What’s important is we carry the same form over there.”
Supported by aggressive cameos from Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Kishan’s brilliance propelled India to 271 for 5, their third-highest total in T20I history, providing the perfect momentum heading into the T20 World Cup.
