Why Suryakumar Yadav Was Frustrated With Ishan Kishan Despite His Match-Winning Knock Against New Zealand

India captain Suryakumar Yadav opened up about a brief moment of frustration during the second T20I against New Zealand, even as he praised Ishan Kishan for an explosive innings that powered India to a seven-wicket win and a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Chasing a stiff target of 209, India wrapped up the contest in just 15.2 overs, producing a dominant batting display that left the visitors searching for answers.

Suryakumar on His Powerplay Anger and Kishan's Intent

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Suryakumar admitted he was momentarily upset when Kishan did not rotate the strike early in the innings, despite India being in trouble at 6 for 2.

"I don't know what Ishan had in the afternoon for lunch, but I have never seen someone batting that way at 6 for 2 and ending the powerplay on 60-odd. But that's what we want for our batters to be able to express themselves. I was angry he wasn't giving me a strike in the powerplay but I was able to get a hold of the conditions," Suryakumar said.

Kishan's fearless approach transformed the chase almost immediately, with India racing to 75 for 2 by the end of the powerplay, their second-highest powerplay score against New Zealand.

Captain Reflects on His Own Form and Bowling Effort

Suryakumar also spoke about his own preparation and the collective bowling effort that prevented New Zealand from crossing the 230-run mark.

"I've been batting well in the nets, had a good break, and had a good practice session before the game too. Incredible effort with the ball. When they were 110 for 2, I thought it would be a 230-odd total, but all the bowlers chipped in and took responsibility. I am really enjoying what's happening right now. The mood is happy in the camp, and I want to keep them in that space."

Kuldeep Yadav led the bowling attack with two wickets, while Hardik Pandya, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy and Shivam Dube also made key contributions to restrict the visitors to 208 for 6.

New Zealand's Assessment After High-Scoring Defeat

Despite posting a competitive total, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner conceded that India's depth and intent proved decisive.

"[On a par score] Against these guys, 300 maybe? I think when you come up against a side that bats deep and the way India came out with intent from ball 1, for us it's about squeezing them where we can. [On their best XI] There are still some guys to come, and you want to make sure the guys are ready for the World Cup. Today we were put under a lot of pressure, and it was good for us to learn and bounce back."

Earlier, Santner anchored the New Zealand innings with an unbeaten 47 off 27 balls, while Rachin Ravindra struck a rapid 44 from 26 deliveries to push the score past the 200-run mark.

Kishan and Suryakumar Seal a Statement Win

India's reply was defined by a 122-run stand between Kishan and Suryakumar. Kishan smashed a 21-ball half-century and eventually fell for 76 off 32 balls, an innings laced with 11 fours and four sixes, before Ish Sodhi broke the partnership in the 10th over.

Suryakumar then took full control, finishing unbeaten on 82 from 37 balls with nine fours and four sixes. Shivam Dube added the finishing touches with a fluent 36 not out from 18 deliveries.

The emphatic chase not only underlined India's batting firepower but also gave the hosts a strong grip on the series as they moved 2-0 ahead against the Black Caps.