New Zealand put up a spirited fight in the second innings of the 5th T20I against India at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, but were eventually bowled out for 225 in 19.4 overs, falling short of the massive target set by the hosts.
Finn Allen was the standout performer for New Zealand, playing a sensational knock of 80 runs off just 38 balls, smashing 8 fours and 6 sixes at a blistering strike rate of 210.53. He dominated the Indian bowling during the powerplay, helping New Zealand race to 79 runs in the first six overs and keeping the chase alive.
Rachin Ravindra provided solid support with a quick 30 off 17 balls, while Daryl Mitchell added late momentum, scoring 26 off 12 deliveries with a strike rate of 216.67. Ish Sodhi also contributed with an aggressive 33 off 15 balls, including 3 sixes, pushing New Zealand past the 200-run mark.
However, regular wickets at crucial stages hurt New Zealand’s chances. Captain Mitchell Santner was dismissed for a duck, and the middle order failed to build sustained partnerships after Finn Allen’s dismissal at 117/2 in the 9th over. The lower order fought hard, but the required run rate proved too steep in the final overs.
India’s bowling attack held its nerve under pressure. Arshdeep Singh delivered a match-winning spell, picking up 5 wickets for 51 runs, dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup. Axar Patel was equally impressive, claiming 3 wickets for 33 runs, including the key dismissals of Finn Allen and Glenn Phillips. Varun Chakaravarthy chipped in with one wicket, while Rinku Singh took a crucial breakthrough in his brief spell.
Despite conceding runs, India’s bowlers managed timely breakthroughs to restrict New Zealand to 225 all out, sealing a comprehensive victory. The match highlighted New Zealand’s aggressive intent but also underlined India’s ability to defend a big total through disciplined bowling and crucial wickets.