New Zealand are firmly in control of the fifth T20I against India at Seddon Park, Hamilton. Chasing India’s target of 192 runs, New Zealand have reached 162/2 in 14.5 overs and now need just 30 runs from 31 balls to win.
Seifert Leads the Chase
Tim Seifert has played a sensational knock and is unbeaten on 89 off 48 balls, smashing 10 fours and 5 sixes at a strike rate of 185.42.
He has been well supported by Glenn Phillips, who is unbeaten on 37 off 22 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes.
The pair have added 80 runs from just 38 balls, putting New Zealand in a commanding position.
Mitchell Falls, But New Zealand Keep Attacking
New Zealand lost their second wicket when Daryl Mitchell was dismissed for 29 off 16 balls. He was caught by Abhishek Sharma off the bowling of Varun Chakravarthy, with New Zealand on 82/2 in the 8.3rd over.
However, the wicket did little to slow down the New Zealand scoring rate. They have smashed 70 runs in the last five overs without losing a wicket.
Varun Chakravarthy Gets One Wicket
For India, Varun Chakravarthy has taken one wicket, although he has conceded 44 runs in his 3.5 overs. Prince Yadav has also bowled three overs and given away 35 runs.
With New Zealand requiring only 30 runs from 31 deliveries, India desperately need quick wickets to create a late twist.
India Posted 191/8
Earlier, India scored 191/8 in 20 overs, setting New Zealand a target of 192. The Indian batting unit produced a strong total, but New Zealand’s aggressive start has put the hosts in a commanding position.
The latest score reads:
India: 191/8 (20 overs)
New Zealand: 162/2 (14.5 overs)
New Zealand need: 30 runs from 31 balls
With Seifert and Phillips still at the crease, New Zealand are now just a few boundaries away from sealing victory in the fifth T20I.
