India break Pakistan's T20I record; hunt down 209 to beat New Zealand in Raipur

India break Pakistan's record [Source: AFP]

India continued their dominant run by defeating New Zealand by seven wickets in the second T20I at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Friday.

With this convincing win, India now lead the five-match series 2-0. Not only did India chase down a big target with ease, but they also broke a world record previously held by Pakistan, making this victory even more special.

India create history with fastest 200+ run chase in T20Is

New Zealand put up a challenging total of 208 for 6, setting India a target of 209 runs. However, what looked like a tough chase on paper turned into a historic moment on the field. India reached the target in just 15.2 overs, with 28 balls to spare.

As a result, India became the fastest team in T20I history to chase a 200+ target. They broke Pakistan’s earlier record, where Pakistan had chased 205 runs with 24 balls remaining in 2025. 

Importantly, India are now the first team ever to chase more than 200 runs with over four overs to spare in T20Is.

Here are the fastest teams to chase down a 200+ score in T20Is:

Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar lead the charge

The backbone of India’s stunning chase was the brilliant batting by Ishan Kishan and captain Suryakumar Yadav. Kishan, who returned to the national side after more than two years, made an immediate impact. He smashed 76 runs off just 32 balls, hitting 11 fours and 4 sixes. From the very first ball, Kishan played fearlessly and put pressure on the New Zealand bowlers.

Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav finally found his rhythm after a long lean phase. He played a captain’s knock of 82 not out from 37 balls, marking his first half-century after 23 innings. Together, they turned the match completely in India’s favour.

Although India lost Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson within the first two overs, the team did not panic. Instead, Kishan’s aggressive counterattack changed the momentum quickly. 

Later, Shivam Dube, scoring 36 not out off 18 balls, supported Suryakumar well as the duo finished the match comfortably.

New Zealand’s bowling and captaincy decisions also struggled to contain India’s aggressive approach, allowing the hosts to cruise to victory.

New Zealand’s effort with the Bat

Earlier in the match, New Zealand had a strong start. Devon Conway and Tim Seifert attacked early, followed by solid contributions from Rachin Ravindra (44) and captain Mitchell Santner (47 not out). At one stage, New Zealand looked set for an even bigger total.

However, India fought back well in the middle overs. Kuldeep Yadav picked up key wickets, while Shivam Dube removed the in-form Daryl Mitchell to slow the scoring rate.

Notably, this chase of 209 is now India’s highest successful run chase in T20I history, equalling their effort against Australia in 2023. Additionally, India have now completed six successful 200+ run chases, the second-most by any team in T20Is.