Raipur, Jan 23 (UNI) New Zealand underlined their growing reputation for batting depth and calm leadership as skipper Mitchell Santner’s unbeaten late assault propelled them to a daunting 208 for 6 against India in the second T20 International at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium here on Friday.
In a telling display of modern T20 strategy, New Zealand did not rely on a single big individual innings. Instead, contributions flowed through the order, with Santner, batting at No.7, emerging as the decisive figure. His unbeaten 47 off 27 balls ensured that momentum built in the final overs was not lost despite wickets falling at regular intervals.
The visitors were 161 for 6 in the 17th over, a phase that often triggers consolidation. Santner, however, chose acceleration, striking six fours and a six while farming the strike expertly and finding an able partner in Zakary Foulkes (15 not out off eight balls). The duo added crucial late runs that pushed New Zealand beyond the psychologically significant 200-run mark.
The innings once again highlighted New Zealand’s batting depth, with runs coming right down the order and no visible drop in intent.
Earlier, Rachin Ravindra’s fluent 44 and brisk starts from Devon Conway (19) and Tim Seifert (24) ensured a strong platform, but it was Santner’s composure under pressure that defined the innings.
For India, the total raised questions about death-over execution, particularly after early control in the middle overs. With the match finely poised, New Zealand’s ability to finish strongly may yet prove the decisive factor as India chase under lights.
