India bounced back spectacularly in the second T20I at Christchurch on Saturday with Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy in pursuit to secure a four-wicket win. It was an unbeaten stand of 69 from 30 balls that helped India secure their target 181 and put off their rivals 2-0 in the five-match series.
India was tending to get bowled out when they were only 113/6 at the end of 15 overs. The visitors were almost catching fire with 68 runs needed in the final five overs when pacer fast bowlers faced them.
Tilak Varma Turns the Match Around
During the middle overs, the New Zealand spinners had taken their toll of the batters on a wicket on which they struggled. But after the spins, it was up to the Indian finishers to energize the chase from the hosts as bowlers.
Initially, Reddy went on an attacking spree to cut down the necessary runs off the remaining 18 balls but India still had 46 to tick off. The battle awaited further unfolding and New Zealand looked like having the upper hand.
But it was a terrific comeback by Tilak. New Zealand’s first wicket was sacrificed when Matt Henry was ruled out while they were left to hold up the Indian batsmen with Jacob Duffy and Nathan Smith during the morning session.
In the following 12 deliveries, Tilak treated the pacers to five boundaries and a six to get them punished. That’s his aggressive chipplay that changed the momentum towards India and he was in reach of the target.
India Seal Dramatic Victory
The attack left Duffy with the most vulnerable 11 runs to try to defend in the very last over. In a losing position at 113/6, India suddenly found itself in the winning position.
The ending duo played with a nice cool head and showed force when it was needed, making a game they had almost won into a fantastic game and win.
The result gave India a 2-0 advantage in the five-match series, putting them in a strong position as they look to maintain their winning momentum in the remaining matches.