Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has finally silenced his critics with a sensational comeback in the second T20I against New Zealand. After a prolonged slump that lasted over a year, the 'Mr. 360' of cricket showcased his vintage class in Raipur, leading India to a dominant 7-wicket victory.
Ending the 468-Day Dry Spell
The wait was long and painful for Surya fans. His last T20I half-century came back on October 12, 2024, against Bangladesh in Hyderabad, where he scored 75 off 35 balls, while since then, he went through a staggering 23 innings without crossing the 50-run mark. His performance in 2025 was particularly concerning, where he averaged a mere 13, while 62 across 21 matches, managing only 218 runs. However, the 468-day drought finally ended as he steered India to victory with a captain's knock.
Equaling Abhishek Sharma's World Record
Chasing a daunting target of 209, Surya played a blistering knock of 82 runs off just 37 balls, decorated with 9 boundaries and 4 sixes. He reached his fifty in just 23 deliveries, reminding everyone of his explosive power-hitting capabilities. This marked the 8th time Surya has scored a T20I half-century in 25 balls or less, equaling the world record currently held by fellow Indian batter Abhishek Sharma.
A Masterclass in Raipur
The Raipur crowd witnessed a masterclass in T20 batting. Surya targeted both pace and spin with equal ease, using his trademark sweeps and ramps to dismantle the New Zealand bowling attack. His ability to find gaps and manipulate the field was on full display, proving that his technical skills remain intact despite the recent dip in form.
Impact on the Series
Leading from the front, Surya's aggressive approach ensured India stayed ahead of the required run rate throughout the chase. His return to form is a massive boost for the Men in Blue, especially with the upcoming international schedule. The 7-wicket win against the Kiwis has now put India in a commanding 2-0 position in the five-match series. With the captain back in form, India looks set to dominate the remainder of the tour.