Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Captain’s explosive 82-run knock powers India to seven-wicket win over New Zealand
Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav finally brought an end to his long wait for a half-century, scoring a match-winning knock in the second T20 International against New Zealand. The right-hander smashed his first T20I fifty in 468 days, guiding India to a comfortable seven-wicket victory at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium on Friday.
Suryakumar’s blistering innings of 82 runs off just 32 balls played a crucial role in India’s successful chase. His knock was laced with nine fours and four sixes, showcasing his trademark aggressive stroke play and marking a strong return to form after a prolonged lean patch.
In a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Player of the Match Ishan Kishan interacted with the skipper and asked whether his slow start was influenced by the pressure of a barren run. Responding candidly, Suryakumar revealed that his wife’s advice helped him regain clarity and composure at the crease.
“We all have a coach at home—the one you are married to,” Suryakumar said with a smile. “She kept telling me to take some time. She understands my mindset very well. I followed her advice, played cautiously at the start, and then built my innings. I did the same in the previous game and again in this match.”
The 35-year-old also opened up about the importance of mental well-being, explaining how a short break away from cricket and social media helped him reset. He said that despite doing well in the nets, confidence only truly returns when runs are scored in matches.
“I used the two to three-week break very well. I went home, stayed away from social media, practised hard, and that put me in a good mental space. Cricket teaches you humility. It’s a great leveller,” he added.
Suryakumar further highlighted the importance of team effort, playfully addressing the perception that India wins only when Abhishek Sharma performs. He stressed that contributions from different players make the team stronger.
“If Ishan scores, we can win matches. Cricket is a team game, and success comes when all eleven players contribute,” he said, while also praising Abhishek Sharma and expressing his hope that the young batter continues his fine form.
Suryakumar’s commanding performance not only sealed India’s victory but also reaffirmed his leadership and form ahead of upcoming challenges.