Ishan Kishan completed a spectacular fairytale return to the Indian team by producing one of the most explosive innings of his career, smashing his maiden T20I century against New Zealand in the fifth and final match of the series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter lit up the night with a breathtaking 103 runs off 43 balls, leaving fans and former players alike in shock at the sheer dominance of his performance.
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Maiden T20I ton in emphatic style
Having been recalled to the national side after a long absence, Kishan was already showing signs of his hitting prowess earlier in the series. However, nothing prepared the cricketing world for his explosive display in the series finale. He reached his century, the first of his T20I career, off just 41 balls, striking boundaries and sixes with ease, including powerful shots across the ground that showcased his timing and range of strokeplay. By the time he was dismissed in the 17th over, Kishan had put together a barnstorming 103 off 43, packed with aggressive intent and finishing with a strike rate eclipsing 200.
Kishan’s innings came at a crucial phase of the match as India aimed to post a commanding total. He formed a substantial partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav, who also contributed a brisk 63 off 30 balls, helping India accelerate after losing the wickets of Sanju Samson & Abhishek Sharma. The duo’s contrasting yet complementary styles, aided by Hardik Pandya's late blitz, ensured India piled up a daunting total of 271/5 in 20 overs.
Emotional celebration by the youngster
What made Kishan’s century even more memorable was his emotional celebration after reaching the landmark. Upon reaching three figures, he first acknowledged the roaring crowd with a raised bat, before turning to share a warm embrace with teammate Hardik Pandya, a moment that quickly became one of the defining images of the match. The standing ovation from fans inside the stadium, and applause from the opposing camp, reflected the universal appreciation for an innings of such purity and impact.
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Kishan’s reaction, a mix of relief, joy and passion, resonated deeply with supporters who have followed his journey back into the national set-up, turning a personal milestone into a collective celebration. He also became the 7th Indian male cricketer to hit an international ton in all three formats, after Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
What’s next for Kishan
With the series wrapped up and the World Cup on the horizon, Kishan’s form provides a timely boost for India. His timing, fearless approach and ability to thrive under pressure will be vital assets in the global showpiece, and his century against New Zealand will be fondly remembered as a landmark in his international career.
With Sanju Samson failing in the series and Ishan Kishan showing explosive form, it is certain that the southpaw might make the cut in India's playing XI at T20 World Cup 2026. The experts & fans have suggested India must open with Abhishek Sharma & Ishan Kishan, which would make this the most deadly opening pair at the mega event.
