India registered a commanding 46-run victory over New Zealand in the fifth and final T20 International at Trivandrum on Saturday night, sealing the five-match series 4-1. The contest turned into a high-scoring spectacle, highlighted by Ishan Kishan’s century and a five-wicket haul by Arshdeep Singh.
Chasing a daunting target of 272, New Zealand showed early intent but were eventually bowled out for 225 in 19.4 overs, falling short despite a strong start.
India Post Mammoth Total
Batting first, India produced an aggressive batting display to post 271 for 5, one of their highest totals in T20 internationals. The innings was anchored by Ishan Kishan, who played a dominant knock of 103 off 43 balls, combining timing with power.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav provided strong support with a brisk 63 off 30 deliveries, maintaining momentum through the middle overs. Hardik Pandya added late impetus, scoring 42 off 17, as India accelerated sharply in the final phase.
Mixed Fortunes at the Top
India began with intent as Abhishek Sharma attacked early, but his innings ended at 30 off 16 balls after failing to convert his promising start. The innings also saw another early dismissal for Sanju Samson, who was out cheaply for the fifth time in the series.
Despite a few early setbacks, India’s middle order ensured the scoring rate never dipped, allowing the hosts to set an imposing target.
New Zealand’s Aggressive Chase
New Zealand’s pursuit began on a shaky note with Tim Seifert dismissed in the opening over. However, Finn Allen counterattacked aggressively, launching a swift recovery.
Allen raced to a 22-ball half-century and continued to dominate the Indian bowlers, keeping New Zealand in contention during the early stages of the chase.
Key Breakthrough Shifts Momentum
The turning point came when Axar Patel removed Finn Allen for 80. The dismissal triggered a collapse as New Zealand lost wickets in quick succession.
With the required run rate climbing sharply, India’s bowlers tightened their grip on the contest.
Arshdeep Leads Bowling Effort
Arshdeep Singh spearheaded India’s bowling performance, finishing with figures that earned him his maiden five-wicket haul in T20 internationals. His disciplined spells halted New Zealand’s progress during the middle and death overs.
Supported well by the rest of the attack, Arshdeep ensured that the visitors were unable to mount a late recovery.
Series Summary
The win allowed India to close the series with a convincing 4-1 margin. The final match encapsulated India’s strengths throughout the series, combining aggressive batting with timely breakthroughs using the ball.
For New Zealand, the series ended despite moments of resistance, particularly through Finn Allen’s attacking approach in the final match.
Conclusion
India’s performance in the fifth T20I underlined their depth and adaptability in the shortest format. With a strong finish in Trivandrum, the hosts ended the series on a high note, while New Zealand will look to address key areas ahead of future assignments.
