NEW DELHI: Arshdeep Singh produced a remarkable comeback spell in the first T20I against New Zealand at Thiruvananthapuram. The left-arm pacer had a tough start but turned the match completely on its head with a sensational finish.

Arshdeep’s spell began in an expensive fashion. In his first two overs, he conceded 40 runs and managed just one wicket, as the New Zealand batters went hard at him early. It looked like one of those nights where nothing would go right.

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Wickets tumble as Arshdeep finds rhythm

His comeback started outfoxing Rachin Ravindra with a knuckle ball. Ravindra went for a pull without conviction and the top edge carried safely to Axar Patel at deep square leg as New Zealand lost another key batter.

The landmark came when Daryl Mitchell attempted a reverse sweep to a yorker length delivery and played it back onto his stumps. Arshdeep celebrated with arms wide open as his teammates ran towards him.

Five-for completes special night for India

Arshdeep finished with figures of 5/51, a spell that perfectly summed up his resilience and fighting spirit. From leaking runs early to ripping through the middle order, it was a dramatic turnaround.

His effort played a major role in India’s emphatic win over New Zealand. It was also a rare night in T20I history as India registered a 100-plus individual score and a five-wicket haul in the same match.