Ishan Kishan lit up Raipur with a fearless counter-attacking innings in the second T20I against New Zealand, but amid the carnage there was also a light-hearted moment that left fans laughing. During his explosive knock, Kishan momentarily lost control of both shot and bat while attempting an aggressive stroke against Mitchell Santner, sending the bat flying high into the night sky in a moment reminiscent of Rishabh Pant’s trademark mishaps.
India under pressure when Kishan walked in
India’s chase of 209 began on a shaky note at Raipur. Early wickets left the hosts in trouble inside the powerplay, with the required rate climbing rapidly. Into this situation walked Ishan Kishan, returning to the side and under pressure to deliver after a quiet outing in the previous match.
Kishan made his intentions clear immediately, choosing attack as the best form of defence. He targeted both pace and spin, disrupting New Zealand’s plans and swinging momentum decisively back in India’s favour.
Bat-flying moment that caught everyone’s eye
One of the most funny moments of Ishan Kishan’s innings came against Mitchell Santner. Attempting a powerful shot against the left-arm spinner, Kishan lost his grip at the point of impact. The bat slipped out of his hands and soared high into the air, drawing gasps followed by laughter from the crowd and smiles from players on both sides.
The moment instantly went viral, drawing comparisons with similar episodes involving Rishabh Pant. Kishan himself smiled it off, quickly retrieving the bat and carrying on as if nothing had happened, a reflection of the confidence and freedom with which he was batting.
A blistering knock that defined the chase
The humour did nothing to slow Kishan down. He went on to smash a stunning half-century off just 21 balls, reaching the milestone in style with a six and a four off Matt Henry. Kishan’s innings was built on clean striking and fearless intent, repeatedly piercing the field and clearing the ropes with ease.
CHECK OUT: https://www.khelwire.com/articles/watch-ishan-kishan-reaches-21-ball-50-in-cracking-style
He eventually finished with a superb 76 off 32 deliveries, an innings that completely altered the complexion of the chase and took the pressure off those batting around him.
Partnership that sealed the game
Kishan found an ideal partner in skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who was playing one of his finest T20I innings. Together, they dismantled the New Zealand bowling attack, ensuring the required rate never became a concern after the early stumbles.
Their stand effectively ended the contest well before the final overs, turning what looked like a challenging chase into a one-sided affair.
India’s emphatic win in Raipur
New Zealand had earlier posted 208 for 6 in their 20 overs, a total that looked competitive on a good batting surface. India, however, made a mockery of the target. Powered by Kishan’s aggression and Suryakumar’s control, the hosts chased down 209 in just 15.2 overs, winning by seven wickets.
The victory handed India a commanding 2–0 lead in the T20I series, underlining their dominance and batting depth.
Why this innings stood out
Kishan’s knock was significant beyond the runs alone. Coming after a cheap dismissal in the previous match, it showcased his ability to respond under pressure and swing momentum decisively. The bat-flying moment added a touch of entertainment, but it also symbolised the fearless, all-out approach with which he batted throughout the innings.
In a match defined by intent and aggression, Kishan’s blend of power, confidence and composure made his Raipur innings one of the highlights of the series so far.
