Hamilton: India made a brisk start in the fifth T20I against New Zealand at Seddon Park, Hamilton. After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bowl first, but the Indian batters responded with an aggressive approach, reaching 72/2 after 8 overs.
Ishan Kishan has led the charge with a fluent knock of 41 runs off 24 balls, including three fours and three sixes. At the other end, Shreyas Iyer is providing further momentum, scoring 23 runs from 12 deliveries with one four and two sixes.
India suffered an early setback when Sanju Samson was dismissed for just 4 runs off 10 balls. He was caught by Michael Bracewell off the bowling of Adam Milne, leaving India at 19/2 after 3.1 overs.
However, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer quickly shifted the momentum back in India's favour. The pair have added 53 runs from just 29 balls, helping India maintain a strong scoring rate.
The last five overs have produced 53 runs without the loss of a wicket, underlining India's attacking intent.
The seventh over, bowled by Michael Bracewell, produced 11 runs. Iyer smashed a short delivery over deep mid-wicket for a six before adding another run. Kishan also contributed with a single. There was a brief moment of concern when Kishan attempted a quick run and New Zealand's Jacob fired in a direct hit at the non-striker's end. However, Kishan managed to make his ground.
With India scoring at a run rate of 9.00, the visitors are currently in a strong position. New Zealand's Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner have each conceded 11 runs from their respective overs so far.
India still have plenty of batting depth available, and with Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer well set, the visitors will look to accelerate further in the remaining overs and post a competitive total.
India: 72/2 after 8 overs
Ishan Kishan: 41 (24), 3 fours, 3 sixes
Shreyas Iyer: 23 (12), 1 four, 2 sixes
Partnership: 53 runs off 29 balls
Last wicket: Sanju Samson c Michael Bracewell b Adam Milne 4 (10)
