Ishan Kishan produced a blistering display of power-hitting in the ongoing second T20 International against New Zealand at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Friday.

The 27-year-old left-hander from Patna, who represents Jharkhand in domestic cricket, raced to his half-century in just 21 deliveries, putting the New Zealand bowlers under severe pressure from the outset.

Ishan Kishan sent out a strong message ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with a scintillating counter-attacking knock in the second T20I against New Zealand in Raipur on Wednesday.

Batting at No. 3, the left-hander took charge after India lost both Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma for just six runs. Unfazed by the early setback, Kishan went on the offensive, finding gaps at will and clearing the ropes with increasing confidence.

It was only his second appearance since making a comeback, yet Kishan looked completely at ease against the New Zealand attack.

The innings marked Kishan’s seventh T20I fifty and came at a crucial juncture, with India’s top order faltering early. While the Men in Blue have largely relied on Abhishek Sharma at the top, Kishan’s explosive display offered a compelling glimpse of a potent No. 3 option should the openers fail.

Kishan’s rapid fifty not only gave India early momentum in the chase but also saw him break Abhishek Sharma’s record for the fastest T20I half-century by an Indian against New Zealand.

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