Suryakumar Yadav’s Brutally Honest Breakdown of India’s Vizag Defeat vs New Zealand 4th T20I
India captain Suryakumar Yadav believes that the absence of crucial batting partnerships proved decisive as India suffered a 50-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth T20I of the five-match series in Visakhapatnam. Despite a late flourish from Shivam Dube, India were unable to keep up with the steep target set by the visitors.
Dew and Partnerships Made the Difference
Suryakumar explained that while Shivam Dube’s aggressive innings showed the right intent, the lack of support from the other end meant India could never truly threaten New Zealand’s total. He emphasized that even one or two solid partnerships could have significantly altered the momentum of the chase.
New Zealand’s Top Order Sets the Platform
Seifert received valuable support from Devon Conway, who contributed a steady 44, while Daryl Mitchell anchored the latter part of the innings with an unbeaten 39. Their combined efforts helped New Zealand post a formidable total of 215, setting India a challenging target of 216.
Dube’s Lone Battle in a Tough Run Chase
In response, India’s chase never found the required rhythm. Early wickets pushed the hosts onto the back foot, increasing the pressure on the middle order. While Shivam Dube launched a stunning counterattack, smashing 65 off just 23 balls, his innings came with little support from the other batters.
Santner Leads New Zealand’s Bowling Attack
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner led from the front with a disciplined bowling performance. Santner finished with impressive figures of 3 for 26, using his variations cleverly on a surface that offered assistance despite the dew.
India’s Experimental Approach Explained
According to Suryakumar, the idea was to assess how the team responds when early wickets fall during high-pressure chases of 180 or 200 runs. Suryakumar added that giving game time to players who are part of the World Cup squad was another key objective of the experiment.
Eyes on the Final T20I
With the series nearing its conclusion, India will look to regroup quickly. The fifth and final T20I will be played at Greenfield International Stadium on January 31.
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