Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav has lauded the audacity with which Ishan Kishan led India's chase in the second T20I match against New Zealand in Raipur on Friday. At 6 for 2 while chasing a daunting 209, India briefly stared into the abyss with the early dismissal of openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma.
however, a breathtaking counterattack from Kishan put the pressure back on New Zealand. From the moment he walked in, Kishan adopted a fearless approach. He went after the bowling from the outset to disrupt New Zealand’s plans.
His 76 off 32 deliveries set the tone for India's victory. Kishan was helped by Suryakumar Yadav as the pair added 122 runs off 49 balls to lead India's recovery.
"I didn't know what Ishan had in the afternoon for lunch or what pre-workout he had before the game, but I have never seen anyone bat that way. At 6 for 2, batting that way, ending the powerplay around 67, 70 [75 for 2], I think it was incredible," Suryakumar said at the post-match presentation.
"I think this is what we want from batters going out there, to express themselves, be happy in their own space, and that's what he did today."
"I was angry he didn't give me strike in the powerplay, but that's okay. I had some time, played 8 balls, 10 balls, and I knew later on when I have time, then I can cover it up,"
Suryakumar also spoke about his performance as he played a vital role in guiding home with a marvellous 82-run knock unbeaten.
"As I said before also, I was batting really well in the nets, and everything which I did back home in the last 2 or 3 weeks. I got a good break to spend time with my family, my friends. I think I had good practice sessions as well, and I think I'm enjoying what's happening right now."