New Zealand produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat India by 50 runs in the fourth T20I at Visakhapatnam, keeping the series alive with a commanding display.
A blazing half-century from Tim Seifert, a crucial finishing act by Daryl Mitchell, and disciplined bowling led by Mitchell Santner proved too much for a faltering Indian chase.
Asked to bat first, New Zealand got off to a flying start courtesy of Seifert’s fearless approach in the powerplay. The wicketkeeper-batter attacked India’s pace attack from the outset, racing to 46 inside the first six overs.
Devon Conway initially played the supporting role before shifting gears against the spinners, helping New Zealand post their best powerplay score against India in T20Is with 71 runs.
The momentum slowed during the middle overs as India struck back through Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh, triggering a mini-collapse.
New Zealand lost wickets at regular intervals and slipped from a strong position to 168 for 6 after 17 overs.
Just when it looked like they might fall short of the 200-run mark, Daryl Mitchell once again delivered under pressure.
The experienced all-rounder launched a late assault, taking on Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana to add 47 runs in the final three overs.
Mitchell remained unbeaten on 39 off 18 balls as New Zealand finished on a formidable 215 for 7.
India’s chase never found momentum. Abhishek Sharma fell for a first-ball duck, and early wickets left the hosts struggling at 87 for 5 by the halfway mark.
Shivam Dube briefly ignited hope with a sensational counter-attack, smashing a 15-ball fifty and targeting Ish Sodhi with brute force. However, his unfortunate run-out at the non-striker’s end ended India’s resistance.
Santner was outstanding with the ball, finishing with figures of 3 for 26, while Jacob Duffy and Ish Sodhi chipped in with two wickets each. India were eventually bowled out for 165 in 18.4 overs, sealing a convincing victory for the visitors.
The win showcased New Zealand’s depth and resilience, combining aggressive batting, smart finishing, and controlled bowling.
With one match remaining, the result adds intrigue to the series and gives the Black Caps a timely confidence boost ahead of upcoming global tournaments.
