Well, India's decision to jumble things up front has just backfired on them. One of the world's best opening batsman perhaps, Rohit Sharma walked out at number 3, Kishan who got his first game of the tournament took his place. Too many questions to ask but the results are in front of you. India started with a conservative approach but neither got runs in the Powerplay nor did they manage to keep wickets in the hand. A lot of pressure was on Kohli's shoulder to deliver again but he perished
New Zealand were top-notch with the ball in their hand. The swing master, Southee and Boult combined to get both the openers out for a timid score. Sharma was dropped on the very first ball he faced but he failed to capitalize on it and then Sodhi then showed his magic and got both the big fish. Trent Boult was the pick of the bowlers as he scalped three wickets to his name. Ish Sodhi too was outstanding with the ball. Overall, it was an excellent performance from the Black Caps and they will
Right then! 111 needed for New Zealand to grab the two points. An easy target for them and they will fancy chasing it out. Will it be that easy or the Indian bowlers will play their magic? We will find out as the chase is about to start. Â
This has been the trend, isn't it? The captain winning the toss is the happier person walking back to the pavilion. Well, now it was Williamson but thanks to a collective performance from his bowling compartment against the mighty Indian batters. Also, Fun fact - For the first time, a team has failed to hit a boundary between overs 7 & 15 in this T20 World Cup. Not something Kohli & Co. would love to hear.
Ish Sodhi is up for a chat, he says that the pitch is playing slow than they expected. Mentions that their main tactic was to bowl touch slower and keep it tight. Tells that unfortunately they dropped a couple of catches but they would take this score on any given day.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Ish Sodhi has put down a sitter! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and whips it uppishly towards fine leg. The ball goes straight to Sodhi but he drops it. Just a single to end the innings! India finish with 110/7.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, In the air, but safe! Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes towards mid on. The fielder from mid off runs there and the batters take two.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Southee bangs it into the deck, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja reaches out and looks to cut but he misses.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Some crucial runs for India here! A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja gets low and tonks it over deep mid-wicket for a biggie.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja stays back and pushes it to long on. Shardul Thakur wanted a single but is sent back by Jadeja.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and heaves it to wide of long on for a couple of runs. Had the throw been at the bowler's end, Mohammed Shami was a goner!
Tim Southee (3-0-15-1) to bowl the final over.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Another low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boult errs in his line and length and hurls a low full toss, on the pads. Jadeja is up to the task as he whips it behind square on the leg side for a boundary.
Mohammed Shami is the new batsman in.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, ! TAKEN! Oh, dear! India are losing their way completely and it is Shardul Thakur who takes his walk back to the pavilion now! A slower ball, on a length, around off. Shardul Thakur looks to loft it over mid off but he miscues it high in the air towards Martin Guptill at mid off. He runs behind and takes a good catch.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, A well-directed bumper, around middle and leg. Shardul Thakur looks to pull but he fails to get any bat on it.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, Back of a length, around off. Shardul Thakur pushes it to mid off. Ravindra Jadeja wanted a single but is sent back by Thakur.
Shardul Thakur walks out to bat.Â
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust and India slip further! Another slower ball, banged into the deck. Hardik Pandya stands tall and looks to clear long off but he fails to get the desired elevation and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long off who takes a dolly.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! No, he can't! Back of a length, outside off. Hardik Pandya hangs back, waits for it and cuts it over point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, ! A boundary to end the over, and a much-needed for India! Milne bowls it slower, into the pitch. Ravindra Jadeja shuffles across and scoops it to the right of the keeper. The ball races away to the fence.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, around off. Hardik Pandya stays back and lofts it towards long on. The fielder collects it on the bounce. The batters cross for a single.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja drills it to long on for another run.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, A yorker now, around middle. Hardik Pandya squeezes it out towards long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, This is top stuff from the Kiwi bowlers! Another ball, banged into the pitch, coming in with the angle. Hardik Pandya is cramped for room as he tries to cut it. The ball goes towards cover.
Adam Milne (3-0-22-1) to bowl out.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, Short of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja pulls it along the ground towards deep square leg for one.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Jadeja stays back and dabs it to backward point. A single taken. Excellent over from Boult so far! Can he finish it well?
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, On a length, around middle and leg. Hardik Pandya stays back and drills it to long on for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Yorker-length delivery, around middle. Jadeja digs it out towards long on for a run.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Play and a miss! Short of a length, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja looks to heave it to the leg side but he misses.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, Back of a length, on leg. Hardik Pandya whips it to deep square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full again, down leg. Pandya flicks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. End of an excellent spell from the birthday boy. Ish Sodhi finishes with figures 4-0-17-2!
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flighted delivery, on middle. Jadeja plays it to long on for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Full and on leg, Jadeja steps out and works it to mid-wicket.Â
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly outside off, Jadeja defends it to to cover.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, In the air, but safe! Short and on off, Pandya throws his hands at it and splices it towards sweeper cover for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, WIDE! Way too outside off, Pandya leaves it alone. Wide given.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A full toss, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja knocks it in front of long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, on off. Pandya pushes it towards covers. He wants a quick single but Ravindra Jadeja is not interested.Â
Review time! Kane Williamson has opted for a review as Ravindra Jadeja has been struck high on his pad. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have gone over the sticks so it is NOT ! New Zealand lose their review!
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, outside off. Pandya stands tall and dabs it to third man for a couple of runs.Â
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, NOT ! Back of a length, on middle. Jadeja looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the pads. The batters take a leg bye. Milne appeals for an LBW but the umpire says no. New Zealand take a review. Ultra Edge shows no bat involved. Ball Tracking shows wickets missing.Â
Ravindra Jadeja is the new man in.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, ! BOWLED'EM! You miss, I hit stuff! Half the side back in the hut now for India. Good-length ball, on off. Rishabh Pant goes for a wild swing across the line. He only manages to get a little inside edge. The ball crashes back onto the stumps. Adam Milne is delighted and punches the air. India can't seem to get out of this rut!Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, WIDE! Full and down the leg side, Pant looks to flick but misses. Wided.Â
Adam Milne (2-0-17-0) is back on.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, On middle, Pandya gets up on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket for a run.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Slower delivery, on the pads. Rishabh Pant looks to beat the short fine leg fielder but couldn't manage to. A single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Leg bye! Flatter ball, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick yet again and gets hit on the pad. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Flatter ball, outside off. Hardik Pandya reaches out and cuts it to sweeper cover for one.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, on leg. Rishabh Pant works it to deep square to collect a run.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick and gets hit on the pads.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, What a stop that was! Athleticism at its best! Short ball, on leg. Pandya hangs back and smacks it towards deep mid-wicket off the top edge. The ball skies up in the air for a long time. James Neesham flies like a superman and catches the ball. He realizes that he will go over the ropes so he throws the ball back inside the boundary line. Saves five runs for his side.Â
Ish Sodhi (2-0-8-2) comes back into the attack.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Full and on leg, Rishabh Pant charges down the track and lifts it to long on. Only a single.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, On a length, on middle. Rishabh Pant tucks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. Only 4 runs from the over.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, On middle, clipped to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, on middle. Pandya nudges it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, Fuller in length, on off. Rishabh Pant goes on his knee and looks to slog. The ball goes off the inside edge to short fine leg for a single.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Slower and short, on middle. Hardik Pandya waits for the ball to come and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.Â
Tim Southee (2-0-11-1) comes back to bowl.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Good-length ball, on middle. Hardik Pandya is early on his stroke and chips it towards mid on.Â
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Around off, pushed through covers for a single. These two need to stay and build a partnership.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Flatter and on middle. Pant pushes it to mid-wicket for one more.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Slanting on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, ! TAKEN! Huge, huge wicket for New Zealand and they strike right after the drinks break. Sodhi hurls a full ball, around off. Virat Kohli gets on his knee and tries to slog-sweep it but does not middle it. The ball skies up and lobs toward long on where Trent Boult holds onto the catch. Kohli just drops his head and starts walking back to the pavilion. Worrying signs for India now.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle. Pandya solidly blocks it.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Another one angling down the leg side. Pandya tickles it to fine leg for a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up on middle. Pant tucks it on the leg side for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Good fielding! A full ball, outside off. Pandya dabs it to the left of backward point who does well to stop it. A single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Around off, pushed to covers for a single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, A yorker from Sodhi. Pant gets his bat down in time and blocks it.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle, drilled down to long on. Pandya is off the mark with a single.
Hardik Pandya is the new man in.
DRINKS! New Zealand are bossing this game right now and India need another special knock from their skipper to take them to safer shores! The Kiwis would be very happy with the way they have bowled till now and have kept India right under the pump. Ish Sodhi (1-0-4-1) comes back into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Drifting on the pads, tucked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Two taken! A flatter ball, outside off. Kohli gets low and cuts it to the left of deep cover to collect a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Short and outside off. Kohli slaps it to deep cover for one more.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Just 4 runs came off his first 2 overs.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A flatter ball, on off. Kohli skips down and tries to slash at it but does so off the inner half and the ball rolls to cover.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A full ball, angling on off. Kohli prods and defends in front of cover.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, outside off. Kohli steers it down to third man for a single. Just 2 runs coming off the over.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, on off. Kohli looks to tuck it on the leg side but gets an inside edge back on the pads.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, Bangs in a short ball, on off. Kohli sways away from it. He looks at the umpire thinking it is a wide but doesn't get it.Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Short of a length, outside off. Pant punches it through the diving backward point fielder and takes a single.
Adam Milne comes back into the attack. Gave away 15 runs in his first over.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, on off. Blocked out back on the deck.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, outside off. Pant taps it to point.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, This is fuller in length, on middle. Rishabh Pant eases it to long on for a run. Just 4 runs and a wicket off the over!
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, around middle and leg. Rishabh Pant tucks it to the leg side and looks to get off the mark with a run. Virat Kohli though is not interested and sends him back.
Rishabh Pant is the new man in.
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, ! TAKEN! Ish Sodhi strikes now and it is Rohit Sharma who has to walk back to the hut! The move to send Rohit Sharma at no.3 hasn't worked for India and they are in a spot of bother! A half-tracker, outside off. Rohit Sharma stays back and looks to pull but it takes the bottom half of the blade and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long on. He runs forward and takes an important catch.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, Tossed up, around leg. Rohit Sharma sweeps it towards short fine leg.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, down leg. Virat Kohli tucks it behind square on the leg side for one.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli reaches out and whips it to wide of long on to collect a couple of runs.
Time for more spin as Ish Sodhi is into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, on middle. Virat Kohli works it to long on for a run.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Make that four in a row! Loopy ball, outside off. Virat Kohli looks for the expansive drive but it goes off the inner half back to the bowler.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Three dots in a row! Flatter ball, around off. Virat Kohli blocks it off the front foot.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A slight mix-up in the middle but Virat Kohli survives! Tossed up, around off. Kohli pushes it towards point and looks for a single but is sent back by Rohit Sharma. The fielder throws the ball to the keeper, Devon Conway and he whips the bails off in a flash but Virat Kohli was well in.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli drives but finds the cover fielder.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Went for just 2 runs in his first over.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Flatter ball, outside off. Rohit Sharma cuts it to point. The fielder there fumbles and concedes a run.
Tim Southee to Virat Kohli, Length ball, angling in from middle. Virat Kohli prods and blocks it watchfully.
Virat Kohli arrives to the middle.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! CAUGHT! Huge wicket this for New Zealand as the dangerous KL Rahul departs! Back of a length, around off. KL Rahul stays back and miscues his pull in the air towards deep square leg. Daryl Mitchell there settles under it and takes a good catch. KL Rahul must be gutted with himself as he has failed to capitalize on the start that he got!
Tim Southee to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, around middle and leg. Rohit Sharma nudges it to deep square leg for a single.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, around off. KL Rahul drives on the up towards the bowler. Tim Southee gets a hand to it and the ball goes towards mid off. A single taken.
Tim Southee is back into the attack. Went for 5 runs in his first over.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, around middle. KL Rahul blocks it off the back foot.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! BANG! A Rohit Sharma special now! Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit stays back and whips it way, way over deep square leg for a biggie. 15 runs off the over!
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! STREAKY! Good-length ball, outside off. KL Rahul looks to heave it away but he gets a thick inside edge. The ball goes past the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! Up and over! Short of a length, outside off. Rohit Sharma hangs back and cuts it over James Neesham at backward point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Swing and a miss! Length ball, outside off, shaping away late. Rohit Sharma stays back to cut but the ball zips past his outside edge.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit Sharma prods and defends it to cover.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul pushes it to mid off for a quick run.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, ! Width on offer and KL Rahul pounces on it! Back of a length, outside off. KL Rahul stays back and cuts it past the diving point fielder for a boundary.
Adam Milne to bowl now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Sliding down the leg side, Sharma misses his tuck and gets hit on the pads.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Tosses it up, on leg. Rohit Sharma reaches out and pushes the ball to the bowler.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Shortish again, on leg. Rohit Sharma defends it to mid-wicket.Â
Mitchell Santner to KL Rahul, Short and on leg, KL Rahul tucks it to short fine leg for one.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, On the pads, glanced to square leg for a single.
Mitchell Santner to roll his fingers now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Drifting it on the pads, Rohit Sharma defends it out.Â
Trent Boult to Rohit Sharma, ! Rohit Sharma would have had his heart in his mouth. Boult knows how much Rohit loves to pull and bowls a perfect short ball, on middle. Rohit Sharma couldn't resist himself playing a pull shot. He pulls it towards deep backward square leg. Adam Milne was present over there but puts the catch down. How costly can this prove to be?
Rohit Sharma walks out at number 3.
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! TAKEN! Trent Boult strikes early. India lose their first wicket. Full and on leg, Ishan Kishan swings the bat across the line and gets decent contact too. But he hits it straight down the throat of the deep square leg fielder where Daryl Mitchell was stationed perfectly. He grabs the catch easily. A big wicket as Ishan Kishan could be a dangerous batsman on his day. He walks back to the pavilion for a timid score though.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Short of a length, outside off, at 140 kph. Ishan Kishan slashes it towards backward point off the back foot. The ball falls just short of the fielder.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on leg. Ishan Kishan looks to flick again but misses this time. He gets hit on the pads.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! Ishan Kishan is underway as well! Length ball, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan uses the angle and flicks it over mid-wicket. Didn't time it that well but will get a boundary.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Short of a length, on middle, at 138 kph. KL Rahul mistimes his pull to mid-wicket for a run.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on off. KL Rahul guides it towards point. He retains the strike by picking up a single.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul gently taps it towards mid off.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! Just over the man at mid on! Fuller in length, on middle and leg. KL Rahul clears his front leg and lifts it. Didn't get it from the middle of the bat. The ball goes just over the man at mid on and races away to the boundary.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a good length, outside off, at 132 kph. KL Rahul dabs it to backward point off the back foot.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Back of a length, on off. Kishan gets up on his toes and defends it on the off side. A superb start from Trent Boult. Only a single from the opening over.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, outside off. Ishan Kishan pushes the ball on the off side.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Loud appeal for an LBW but turned down! Good-length ball, comes back in shaprly, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the front pad. Trent Boult pleads for an lbw but Richard Kettleborough says no.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, on middle. KL Rahul tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on middle. KL Rahul gets behind the line of the ball and defends it right under his eyes.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on off, nipping away, at 134 kph. Ishan Kishan opens the full face of the bat and pushes it to mid on.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Fuller in length this time, outside off. KL Rahul steers it to point. India and KL Rahul are undereway!Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Boult starts with a good-length ball, on off, at 129 kph. KL Rahul prods and taps it to point. A slight hesitation for a single as KL Rahul wanted one but is sent back by Ishan Kishan.
Who will bowl from the other end? It is Tim Southee.
The players walk out and line up for their respective national anthems. It is New Zealand's first followed by India's. Done with all the pre-match formalities. It is time for the action as the players of New Zealand stride out to the middle. Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are the openers for India. The players take the knee to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Trent Boult to start with the ball. Here we go...
India didn't get the dream start they expected as they were completely thrashed by the arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening encounter. The Men in Blue had no answers to Pakistan's belligerent batting that scripted a historic 10-wicket victory, leaving Virat Kohli with plenty of soul searching to do. The bowlers lacked bite with the ball and were a shade off-color. A lot of speculation has revolved around Hardik Pandya's bowling as well. It remains to be seen if he gets to roll his arm or not i
Trent Boult is down for a chat. He says that they got plenty of time to prepare and are excited to play against India. Mentions that they are in good spirits and it is an exciting tournament. Adds that the ball might swing early on and they have done enough planning. It is all about getting out there and execute those plans well. He hopes that he get the ball early and then see what happens.
Virat Kohli, the skipper of India, says that they would have bowled first as well. Adds that they need to keep wickets in hand to get those extra runs. Says that the break was too long but the players are ready and itching to get back on the pitch. Informs that there is one forced change -Suryakumar Yadav has got a lower back spasm and Ishan Kishan comes in for him. Also, Shardul Thakur come in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Informs that Ishan Kishan will open the innings.
Kane Williamson, the skipper of New Zealand, says that they will bowl first. Mentions that dew will come into play and they will look to chase. Tells that it is important for them to regroup and are up for the challenge against India. Informs that there is one change. Adam Milne comes in for Tim Seifert just to balance their bowling attack. Further adds that Devon Conway will keep.
India (Playing XI) - KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (C), Ishan Kishan (In for Suryakumar Yadav), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur (In for Bhuvneshwar Kumar), Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand (Playing XI) - Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson (C), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Adam Milne (In for Tim Seifert), Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult.
TOSS UPDATE - Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli are in the middle for the all-important toss. Up goes the coin and it lands in favour of the former. New Zealand have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in match number 28 of the T20 World Cup. The Men in Blue are yet to open their account in the mega event while the Black Caps haven't secured a win as well. Having lost one game apiece, it is the perfect opportunity for both the teams to get their first win in this match as a loss here could seriously jeopardize their semi final hopes. The stakes couldn't get any higher, could they? On that note, welcome to the coverage.
On the other hand, although New Zealand lost against Pakistan as well, they were in the game for the most part of the match. It was the duo of Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali who took the game away from them. On the bowling front, they seem fine and settled but it is their batters who need to provide some cushion. They make the most of the Powerplay but post that they seem to lose the tempo, a problem that Kane Williamson could resolve but not everytime. Historically, the Kiwis have enjoyed the wood
We are set for New Zealand's reply!
....THE RUN CHASE....
Well, India's decision to jumble things up front has just backfired on them. One of the world's best opening batsman perhaps, Rohit Sharma walked out at number 3, Kishan who got his first game of the tournament took his place. Too many questions to ask but the results are in front of you. India started with a conservative approach but neither got runs in the Powerplay nor did they manage to keep wickets in the hand. A lot of pressure was on Kohli's shoulder to deliver again but he perished
New Zealand were top-notch with the ball in their hand. The swing master, Southee and Boult combined to get both the openers out for a timid score. Sharma was dropped on the very first ball he faced but he failed to capitalize on it and then Sodhi then showed his magic and got both the big fish. Trent Boult was the pick of the bowlers as he scalped three wickets to his name. Ish Sodhi too was outstanding with the ball. Overall, it was an excellent performance from the Black Caps and they will
Right then! 111 needed for New Zealand to grab the two points. An easy target for them and they will fancy chasing it out. Will it be that easy or the Indian bowlers will play their magic? We will find out as the chase is about to start. Â
This has been the trend, isn't it? The captain winning the toss is the happier person walking back to the pavilion. Well, now it was Williamson but thanks to a collective performance from his bowling compartment against the mighty Indian batters. Also, Fun fact - For the first time, a team has failed to hit a boundary between overs 7 & 15 in this T20 World Cup. Not something Kohli & Co. would love to hear.
Ish Sodhi is up for a chat, he says that the pitch is playing slow than they expected. Mentions that their main tactic was to bowl touch slower and keep it tight. Tells that unfortunately they dropped a couple of catches but they would take this score on any given day.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Ish Sodhi has put down a sitter! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and whips it uppishly towards fine leg. The ball goes straight to Sodhi but he drops it. Just a single to end the innings! India finish with 110/7.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, In the air, but safe! Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes towards mid on. The fielder from mid off runs there and the batters take two.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Southee bangs it into the deck, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja reaches out and looks to cut but he misses.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Some crucial runs for India here! A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja gets low and tonks it over deep mid-wicket for a biggie.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja stays back and pushes it to long on. Shardul Thakur wanted a single but is sent back by Jadeja.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and heaves it to wide of long on for a couple of runs. Had the throw been at the bowler's end, Mohammed Shami was a goner!
Tim Southee (3-0-15-1) to bowl the final over.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Another low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boult errs in his line and length and hurls a low full toss, on the pads. Jadeja is up to the task as he whips it behind square on the leg side for a boundary.
Mohammed Shami is the new batsman in.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, ! TAKEN! Oh, dear! India are losing their way completely and it is Shardul Thakur who takes his walk back to the pavilion now! A slower ball, on a length, around off. Shardul Thakur looks to loft it over mid off but he miscues it high in the air towards Martin Guptill at mid off. He runs behind and takes a good catch.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, A well-directed bumper, around middle and leg. Shardul Thakur looks to pull but he fails to get any bat on it.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, Back of a length, around off. Shardul Thakur pushes it to mid off. Ravindra Jadeja wanted a single but is sent back by Thakur.
Shardul Thakur walks out to bat.Â
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust and India slip further! Another slower ball, banged into the deck. Hardik Pandya stands tall and looks to clear long off but he fails to get the desired elevation and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long off who takes a dolly.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! No, he can't! Back of a length, outside off. Hardik Pandya hangs back, waits for it and cuts it over point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, ! A boundary to end the over, and a much-needed for India! Milne bowls it slower, into the pitch. Ravindra Jadeja shuffles across and scoops it to the right of the keeper. The ball races away to the fence.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, around off. Hardik Pandya stays back and lofts it towards long on. The fielder collects it on the bounce. The batters cross for a single.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja drills it to long on for another run.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, A yorker now, around middle. Hardik Pandya squeezes it out towards long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, This is top stuff from the Kiwi bowlers! Another ball, banged into the pitch, coming in with the angle. Hardik Pandya is cramped for room as he tries to cut it. The ball goes towards cover.
Adam Milne (3-0-22-1) to bowl out.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, Short of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja pulls it along the ground towards deep square leg for one.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Jadeja stays back and dabs it to backward point. A single taken. Excellent over from Boult so far! Can he finish it well?
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, On a length, around middle and leg. Hardik Pandya stays back and drills it to long on for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Yorker-length delivery, around middle. Jadeja digs it out towards long on for a run.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Play and a miss! Short of a length, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja looks to heave it to the leg side but he misses.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, Back of a length, on leg. Hardik Pandya whips it to deep square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full again, down leg. Pandya flicks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. End of an excellent spell from the birthday boy. Ish Sodhi finishes with figures 4-0-17-2!
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flighted delivery, on middle. Jadeja plays it to long on for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Full and on leg, Jadeja steps out and works it to mid-wicket.Â
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly outside off, Jadeja defends it to to cover.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, In the air, but safe! Short and on off, Pandya throws his hands at it and splices it towards sweeper cover for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, WIDE! Way too outside off, Pandya leaves it alone. Wide given.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A full toss, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja knocks it in front of long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, on off. Pandya pushes it towards covers. He wants a quick single but Ravindra Jadeja is not interested.Â
Review time! Kane Williamson has opted for a review as Ravindra Jadeja has been struck high on his pad. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have gone over the sticks so it is NOT ! New Zealand lose their review!
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, outside off. Pandya stands tall and dabs it to third man for a couple of runs.Â
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, NOT ! Back of a length, on middle. Jadeja looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the pads. The batters take a leg bye. Milne appeals for an LBW but the umpire says no. New Zealand take a review. Ultra Edge shows no bat involved. Ball Tracking shows wickets missing.Â
Ravindra Jadeja is the new man in.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, ! BOWLED'EM! You miss, I hit stuff! Half the side back in the hut now for India. Good-length ball, on off. Rishabh Pant goes for a wild swing across the line. He only manages to get a little inside edge. The ball crashes back onto the stumps. Adam Milne is delighted and punches the air. India can't seem to get out of this rut!Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, WIDE! Full and down the leg side, Pant looks to flick but misses. Wided.Â
Adam Milne (2-0-17-0) is back on.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, On middle, Pandya gets up on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket for a run.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Slower delivery, on the pads. Rishabh Pant looks to beat the short fine leg fielder but couldn't manage to. A single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Leg bye! Flatter ball, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick yet again and gets hit on the pad. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Flatter ball, outside off. Hardik Pandya reaches out and cuts it to sweeper cover for one.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, on leg. Rishabh Pant works it to deep square to collect a run.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick and gets hit on the pads.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, What a stop that was! Athleticism at its best! Short ball, on leg. Pandya hangs back and smacks it towards deep mid-wicket off the top edge. The ball skies up in the air for a long time. James Neesham flies like a superman and catches the ball. He realizes that he will go over the ropes so he throws the ball back inside the boundary line. Saves five runs for his side.Â
Ish Sodhi (2-0-8-2) comes back into the attack.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Full and on leg, Rishabh Pant charges down the track and lifts it to long on. Only a single.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, On a length, on middle. Rishabh Pant tucks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. Only 4 runs from the over.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, On middle, clipped to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, on middle. Pandya nudges it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, Fuller in length, on off. Rishabh Pant goes on his knee and looks to slog. The ball goes off the inside edge to short fine leg for a single.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Slower and short, on middle. Hardik Pandya waits for the ball to come and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.Â
Tim Southee (2-0-11-1) comes back to bowl.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Good-length ball, on middle. Hardik Pandya is early on his stroke and chips it towards mid on.Â
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Around off, pushed through covers for a single. These two need to stay and build a partnership.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Flatter and on middle. Pant pushes it to mid-wicket for one more.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Slanting on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, ! TAKEN! Huge, huge wicket for New Zealand and they strike right after the drinks break. Sodhi hurls a full ball, around off. Virat Kohli gets on his knee and tries to slog-sweep it but does not middle it. The ball skies up and lobs toward long on where Trent Boult holds onto the catch. Kohli just drops his head and starts walking back to the pavilion. Worrying signs for India now.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle. Pandya solidly blocks it.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Another one angling down the leg side. Pandya tickles it to fine leg for a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up on middle. Pant tucks it on the leg side for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Good fielding! A full ball, outside off. Pandya dabs it to the left of backward point who does well to stop it. A single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Around off, pushed to covers for a single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, A yorker from Sodhi. Pant gets his bat down in time and blocks it.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle, drilled down to long on. Pandya is off the mark with a single.
Hardik Pandya is the new man in.
DRINKS! New Zealand are bossing this game right now and India need another special knock from their skipper to take them to safer shores! The Kiwis would be very happy with the way they have bowled till now and have kept India right under the pump. Ish Sodhi (1-0-4-1) comes back into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Drifting on the pads, tucked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Two taken! A flatter ball, outside off. Kohli gets low and cuts it to the left of deep cover to collect a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Short and outside off. Kohli slaps it to deep cover for one more.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Just 4 runs came off his first 2 overs.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A flatter ball, on off. Kohli skips down and tries to slash at it but does so off the inner half and the ball rolls to cover.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A full ball, angling on off. Kohli prods and defends in front of cover.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, outside off. Kohli steers it down to third man for a single. Just 2 runs coming off the over.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, on off. Kohli looks to tuck it on the leg side but gets an inside edge back on the pads.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, Bangs in a short ball, on off. Kohli sways away from it. He looks at the umpire thinking it is a wide but doesn't get it.Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Short of a length, outside off. Pant punches it through the diving backward point fielder and takes a single.
Adam Milne comes back into the attack. Gave away 15 runs in his first over.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, on off. Blocked out back on the deck.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, outside off. Pant taps it to point.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, This is fuller in length, on middle. Rishabh Pant eases it to long on for a run. Just 4 runs and a wicket off the over!
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, around middle and leg. Rishabh Pant tucks it to the leg side and looks to get off the mark with a run. Virat Kohli though is not interested and sends him back.
Rishabh Pant is the new man in.
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, ! TAKEN! Ish Sodhi strikes now and it is Rohit Sharma who has to walk back to the hut! The move to send Rohit Sharma at no.3 hasn't worked for India and they are in a spot of bother! A half-tracker, outside off. Rohit Sharma stays back and looks to pull but it takes the bottom half of the blade and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long on. He runs forward and takes an important catch.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, Tossed up, around leg. Rohit Sharma sweeps it towards short fine leg.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, down leg. Virat Kohli tucks it behind square on the leg side for one.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli reaches out and whips it to wide of long on to collect a couple of runs.
Time for more spin as Ish Sodhi is into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, on middle. Virat Kohli works it to long on for a run.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Make that four in a row! Loopy ball, outside off. Virat Kohli looks for the expansive drive but it goes off the inner half back to the bowler.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Three dots in a row! Flatter ball, around off. Virat Kohli blocks it off the front foot.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A slight mix-up in the middle but Virat Kohli survives! Tossed up, around off. Kohli pushes it towards point and looks for a single but is sent back by Rohit Sharma. The fielder throws the ball to the keeper, Devon Conway and he whips the bails off in a flash but Virat Kohli was well in.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli drives but finds the cover fielder.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Went for just 2 runs in his first over.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Flatter ball, outside off. Rohit Sharma cuts it to point. The fielder there fumbles and concedes a run.
Tim Southee to Virat Kohli, Length ball, angling in from middle. Virat Kohli prods and blocks it watchfully.
Virat Kohli arrives to the middle.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! CAUGHT! Huge wicket this for New Zealand as the dangerous KL Rahul departs! Back of a length, around off. KL Rahul stays back and miscues his pull in the air towards deep square leg. Daryl Mitchell there settles under it and takes a good catch. KL Rahul must be gutted with himself as he has failed to capitalize on the start that he got!
Tim Southee to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, around middle and leg. Rohit Sharma nudges it to deep square leg for a single.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, around off. KL Rahul drives on the up towards the bowler. Tim Southee gets a hand to it and the ball goes towards mid off. A single taken.
Tim Southee is back into the attack. Went for 5 runs in his first over.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, around middle. KL Rahul blocks it off the back foot.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! BANG! A Rohit Sharma special now! Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit stays back and whips it way, way over deep square leg for a biggie. 15 runs off the over!
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! STREAKY! Good-length ball, outside off. KL Rahul looks to heave it away but he gets a thick inside edge. The ball goes past the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! Up and over! Short of a length, outside off. Rohit Sharma hangs back and cuts it over James Neesham at backward point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Swing and a miss! Length ball, outside off, shaping away late. Rohit Sharma stays back to cut but the ball zips past his outside edge.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit Sharma prods and defends it to cover.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul pushes it to mid off for a quick run.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, ! Width on offer and KL Rahul pounces on it! Back of a length, outside off. KL Rahul stays back and cuts it past the diving point fielder for a boundary.
Adam Milne to bowl now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Sliding down the leg side, Sharma misses his tuck and gets hit on the pads.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Tosses it up, on leg. Rohit Sharma reaches out and pushes the ball to the bowler.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Shortish again, on leg. Rohit Sharma defends it to mid-wicket.Â
Mitchell Santner to KL Rahul, Short and on leg, KL Rahul tucks it to short fine leg for one.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, On the pads, glanced to square leg for a single.
Mitchell Santner to roll his fingers now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Drifting it on the pads, Rohit Sharma defends it out.Â
Trent Boult to Rohit Sharma, ! Rohit Sharma would have had his heart in his mouth. Boult knows how much Rohit loves to pull and bowls a perfect short ball, on middle. Rohit Sharma couldn't resist himself playing a pull shot. He pulls it towards deep backward square leg. Adam Milne was present over there but puts the catch down. How costly can this prove to be?
Rohit Sharma walks out at number 3.
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! TAKEN! Trent Boult strikes early. India lose their first wicket. Full and on leg, Ishan Kishan swings the bat across the line and gets decent contact too. But he hits it straight down the throat of the deep square leg fielder where Daryl Mitchell was stationed perfectly. He grabs the catch easily. A big wicket as Ishan Kishan could be a dangerous batsman on his day. He walks back to the pavilion for a timid score though.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Short of a length, outside off, at 140 kph. Ishan Kishan slashes it towards backward point off the back foot. The ball falls just short of the fielder.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on leg. Ishan Kishan looks to flick again but misses this time. He gets hit on the pads.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! Ishan Kishan is underway as well! Length ball, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan uses the angle and flicks it over mid-wicket. Didn't time it that well but will get a boundary.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Short of a length, on middle, at 138 kph. KL Rahul mistimes his pull to mid-wicket for a run.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on off. KL Rahul guides it towards point. He retains the strike by picking up a single.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul gently taps it towards mid off.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! Just over the man at mid on! Fuller in length, on middle and leg. KL Rahul clears his front leg and lifts it. Didn't get it from the middle of the bat. The ball goes just over the man at mid on and races away to the boundary.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a good length, outside off, at 132 kph. KL Rahul dabs it to backward point off the back foot.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Back of a length, on off. Kishan gets up on his toes and defends it on the off side. A superb start from Trent Boult. Only a single from the opening over.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, outside off. Ishan Kishan pushes the ball on the off side.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Loud appeal for an LBW but turned down! Good-length ball, comes back in shaprly, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the front pad. Trent Boult pleads for an lbw but Richard Kettleborough says no.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, on middle. KL Rahul tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on middle. KL Rahul gets behind the line of the ball and defends it right under his eyes.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on off, nipping away, at 134 kph. Ishan Kishan opens the full face of the bat and pushes it to mid on.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Fuller in length this time, outside off. KL Rahul steers it to point. India and KL Rahul are undereway!Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Boult starts with a good-length ball, on off, at 129 kph. KL Rahul prods and taps it to point. A slight hesitation for a single as KL Rahul wanted one but is sent back by Ishan Kishan.
Who will bowl from the other end? It is Tim Southee.
The players walk out and line up for their respective national anthems. It is New Zealand's first followed by India's. Done with all the pre-match formalities. It is time for the action as the players of New Zealand stride out to the middle. Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are the openers for India. The players take the knee to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Trent Boult to start with the ball. Here we go...
India didn't get the dream start they expected as they were completely thrashed by the arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening encounter. The Men in Blue had no answers to Pakistan's belligerent batting that scripted a historic 10-wicket victory, leaving Virat Kohli with plenty of soul searching to do. The bowlers lacked bite with the ball and were a shade off-color. A lot of speculation has revolved around Hardik Pandya's bowling as well. It remains to be seen if he gets to roll his arm or not i
Trent Boult is down for a chat. He says that they got plenty of time to prepare and are excited to play against India. Mentions that they are in good spirits and it is an exciting tournament. Adds that the ball might swing early on and they have done enough planning. It is all about getting out there and execute those plans well. He hopes that he get the ball early and then see what happens.
Virat Kohli, the skipper of India, says that they would have bowled first as well. Adds that they need to keep wickets in hand to get those extra runs. Says that the break was too long but the players are ready and itching to get back on the pitch. Informs that there is one forced change -Suryakumar Yadav has got a lower back spasm and Ishan Kishan comes in for him. Also, Shardul Thakur come in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Informs that Ishan Kishan will open the innings.
Kane Williamson, the skipper of New Zealand, says that they will bowl first. Mentions that dew will come into play and they will look to chase. Tells that it is important for them to regroup and are up for the challenge against India. Informs that there is one change. Adam Milne comes in for Tim Seifert just to balance their bowling attack. Further adds that Devon Conway will keep.
India (Playing XI) - KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (C), Ishan Kishan (In for Suryakumar Yadav), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur (In for Bhuvneshwar Kumar), Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand (Playing XI) - Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson (C), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Adam Milne (In for Tim Seifert), Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult.
TOSS UPDATE - Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli are in the middle for the all-important toss. Up goes the coin and it lands in favour of the former. New Zealand have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in match number 28 of the T20 World Cup. The Men in Blue are yet to open their account in the mega event while the Black Caps haven't secured a win as well. Having lost one game apiece, it is the perfect opportunity for both the teams to get their first win in this match as a loss here could seriously jeopardize their semi final hopes. The stakes couldn't get any higher, could they? On that note, welcome to the coverage.
On the other hand, although New Zealand lost against Pakistan as well, they were in the game for the most part of the match. It was the duo of Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali who took the game away from them. On the bowling front, they seem fine and settled but it is their batters who need to provide some cushion. They make the most of the Powerplay but post that they seem to lose the tempo, a problem that Kane Williamson could resolve but not everytime. Historically, the Kiwis have enjoyed the wood
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New Zealand
111/2(14.3 Overs)
We are set for New Zealand's reply!
....THE RUN CHASE....
Well, India's decision to jumble things up front has just backfired on them. One of the world's best opening batsman perhaps, Rohit Sharma walked out at number 3, Kishan who got his first game of the tournament took his place. Too many questions to ask but the results are in front of you. India started with a conservative approach but neither got runs in the Powerplay nor did they manage to keep wickets in the hand. A lot of pressure was on Kohli's shoulder to deliver again but he perished
New Zealand were top-notch with the ball in their hand. The swing master, Southee and Boult combined to get both the openers out for a timid score. Sharma was dropped on the very first ball he faced but he failed to capitalize on it and then Sodhi then showed his magic and got both the big fish. Trent Boult was the pick of the bowlers as he scalped three wickets to his name. Ish Sodhi too was outstanding with the ball. Overall, it was an excellent performance from the Black Caps and they will
Right then! 111 needed for New Zealand to grab the two points. An easy target for them and they will fancy chasing it out. Will it be that easy or the Indian bowlers will play their magic? We will find out as the chase is about to start. Â
This has been the trend, isn't it? The captain winning the toss is the happier person walking back to the pavilion. Well, now it was Williamson but thanks to a collective performance from his bowling compartment against the mighty Indian batters. Also, Fun fact - For the first time, a team has failed to hit a boundary between overs 7 & 15 in this T20 World Cup. Not something Kohli & Co. would love to hear.
Ish Sodhi is up for a chat, he says that the pitch is playing slow than they expected. Mentions that their main tactic was to bowl touch slower and keep it tight. Tells that unfortunately they dropped a couple of catches but they would take this score on any given day.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Ish Sodhi has put down a sitter! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and whips it uppishly towards fine leg. The ball goes straight to Sodhi but he drops it. Just a single to end the innings! India finish with 110/7.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, In the air, but safe! Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes towards mid on. The fielder from mid off runs there and the batters take two.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Southee bangs it into the deck, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja reaches out and looks to cut but he misses.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Some crucial runs for India here! A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja gets low and tonks it over deep mid-wicket for a biggie.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja stays back and pushes it to long on. Shardul Thakur wanted a single but is sent back by Jadeja.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and heaves it to wide of long on for a couple of runs. Had the throw been at the bowler's end, Mohammed Shami was a goner!
Tim Southee (3-0-15-1) to bowl the final over.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Another low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boult errs in his line and length and hurls a low full toss, on the pads. Jadeja is up to the task as he whips it behind square on the leg side for a boundary.
Mohammed Shami is the new batsman in.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, ! TAKEN! Oh, dear! India are losing their way completely and it is Shardul Thakur who takes his walk back to the pavilion now! A slower ball, on a length, around off. Shardul Thakur looks to loft it over mid off but he miscues it high in the air towards Martin Guptill at mid off. He runs behind and takes a good catch.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, A well-directed bumper, around middle and leg. Shardul Thakur looks to pull but he fails to get any bat on it.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, Back of a length, around off. Shardul Thakur pushes it to mid off. Ravindra Jadeja wanted a single but is sent back by Thakur.
Shardul Thakur walks out to bat.Â
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust and India slip further! Another slower ball, banged into the deck. Hardik Pandya stands tall and looks to clear long off but he fails to get the desired elevation and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long off who takes a dolly.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! No, he can't! Back of a length, outside off. Hardik Pandya hangs back, waits for it and cuts it over point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, ! A boundary to end the over, and a much-needed for India! Milne bowls it slower, into the pitch. Ravindra Jadeja shuffles across and scoops it to the right of the keeper. The ball races away to the fence.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, around off. Hardik Pandya stays back and lofts it towards long on. The fielder collects it on the bounce. The batters cross for a single.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja drills it to long on for another run.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, A yorker now, around middle. Hardik Pandya squeezes it out towards long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, This is top stuff from the Kiwi bowlers! Another ball, banged into the pitch, coming in with the angle. Hardik Pandya is cramped for room as he tries to cut it. The ball goes towards cover.
Adam Milne (3-0-22-1) to bowl out.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, Short of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja pulls it along the ground towards deep square leg for one.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Jadeja stays back and dabs it to backward point. A single taken. Excellent over from Boult so far! Can he finish it well?
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, On a length, around middle and leg. Hardik Pandya stays back and drills it to long on for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Yorker-length delivery, around middle. Jadeja digs it out towards long on for a run.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Play and a miss! Short of a length, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja looks to heave it to the leg side but he misses.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, Back of a length, on leg. Hardik Pandya whips it to deep square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full again, down leg. Pandya flicks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. End of an excellent spell from the birthday boy. Ish Sodhi finishes with figures 4-0-17-2!
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flighted delivery, on middle. Jadeja plays it to long on for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Full and on leg, Jadeja steps out and works it to mid-wicket.Â
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly outside off, Jadeja defends it to to cover.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, In the air, but safe! Short and on off, Pandya throws his hands at it and splices it towards sweeper cover for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, WIDE! Way too outside off, Pandya leaves it alone. Wide given.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A full toss, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja knocks it in front of long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, on off. Pandya pushes it towards covers. He wants a quick single but Ravindra Jadeja is not interested.Â
Review time! Kane Williamson has opted for a review as Ravindra Jadeja has been struck high on his pad. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have gone over the sticks so it is NOT ! New Zealand lose their review!
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, outside off. Pandya stands tall and dabs it to third man for a couple of runs.Â
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, NOT ! Back of a length, on middle. Jadeja looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the pads. The batters take a leg bye. Milne appeals for an LBW but the umpire says no. New Zealand take a review. Ultra Edge shows no bat involved. Ball Tracking shows wickets missing.Â
Ravindra Jadeja is the new man in.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, ! BOWLED'EM! You miss, I hit stuff! Half the side back in the hut now for India. Good-length ball, on off. Rishabh Pant goes for a wild swing across the line. He only manages to get a little inside edge. The ball crashes back onto the stumps. Adam Milne is delighted and punches the air. India can't seem to get out of this rut!Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, WIDE! Full and down the leg side, Pant looks to flick but misses. Wided.Â
Adam Milne (2-0-17-0) is back on.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, On middle, Pandya gets up on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket for a run.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Slower delivery, on the pads. Rishabh Pant looks to beat the short fine leg fielder but couldn't manage to. A single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Leg bye! Flatter ball, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick yet again and gets hit on the pad. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Flatter ball, outside off. Hardik Pandya reaches out and cuts it to sweeper cover for one.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, on leg. Rishabh Pant works it to deep square to collect a run.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick and gets hit on the pads.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, What a stop that was! Athleticism at its best! Short ball, on leg. Pandya hangs back and smacks it towards deep mid-wicket off the top edge. The ball skies up in the air for a long time. James Neesham flies like a superman and catches the ball. He realizes that he will go over the ropes so he throws the ball back inside the boundary line. Saves five runs for his side.Â
Ish Sodhi (2-0-8-2) comes back into the attack.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Full and on leg, Rishabh Pant charges down the track and lifts it to long on. Only a single.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, On a length, on middle. Rishabh Pant tucks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. Only 4 runs from the over.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, On middle, clipped to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, on middle. Pandya nudges it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, Fuller in length, on off. Rishabh Pant goes on his knee and looks to slog. The ball goes off the inside edge to short fine leg for a single.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Slower and short, on middle. Hardik Pandya waits for the ball to come and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.Â
Tim Southee (2-0-11-1) comes back to bowl.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Good-length ball, on middle. Hardik Pandya is early on his stroke and chips it towards mid on.Â
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Around off, pushed through covers for a single. These two need to stay and build a partnership.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Flatter and on middle. Pant pushes it to mid-wicket for one more.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Slanting on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, ! TAKEN! Huge, huge wicket for New Zealand and they strike right after the drinks break. Sodhi hurls a full ball, around off. Virat Kohli gets on his knee and tries to slog-sweep it but does not middle it. The ball skies up and lobs toward long on where Trent Boult holds onto the catch. Kohli just drops his head and starts walking back to the pavilion. Worrying signs for India now.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle. Pandya solidly blocks it.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Another one angling down the leg side. Pandya tickles it to fine leg for a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up on middle. Pant tucks it on the leg side for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Good fielding! A full ball, outside off. Pandya dabs it to the left of backward point who does well to stop it. A single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Around off, pushed to covers for a single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, A yorker from Sodhi. Pant gets his bat down in time and blocks it.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle, drilled down to long on. Pandya is off the mark with a single.
Hardik Pandya is the new man in.
DRINKS! New Zealand are bossing this game right now and India need another special knock from their skipper to take them to safer shores! The Kiwis would be very happy with the way they have bowled till now and have kept India right under the pump. Ish Sodhi (1-0-4-1) comes back into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Drifting on the pads, tucked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Two taken! A flatter ball, outside off. Kohli gets low and cuts it to the left of deep cover to collect a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Short and outside off. Kohli slaps it to deep cover for one more.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Just 4 runs came off his first 2 overs.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A flatter ball, on off. Kohli skips down and tries to slash at it but does so off the inner half and the ball rolls to cover.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A full ball, angling on off. Kohli prods and defends in front of cover.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, outside off. Kohli steers it down to third man for a single. Just 2 runs coming off the over.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, on off. Kohli looks to tuck it on the leg side but gets an inside edge back on the pads.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, Bangs in a short ball, on off. Kohli sways away from it. He looks at the umpire thinking it is a wide but doesn't get it.Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Short of a length, outside off. Pant punches it through the diving backward point fielder and takes a single.
Adam Milne comes back into the attack. Gave away 15 runs in his first over.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, on off. Blocked out back on the deck.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, outside off. Pant taps it to point.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, This is fuller in length, on middle. Rishabh Pant eases it to long on for a run. Just 4 runs and a wicket off the over!
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, around middle and leg. Rishabh Pant tucks it to the leg side and looks to get off the mark with a run. Virat Kohli though is not interested and sends him back.
Rishabh Pant is the new man in.
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, ! TAKEN! Ish Sodhi strikes now and it is Rohit Sharma who has to walk back to the hut! The move to send Rohit Sharma at no.3 hasn't worked for India and they are in a spot of bother! A half-tracker, outside off. Rohit Sharma stays back and looks to pull but it takes the bottom half of the blade and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long on. He runs forward and takes an important catch.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, Tossed up, around leg. Rohit Sharma sweeps it towards short fine leg.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, down leg. Virat Kohli tucks it behind square on the leg side for one.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli reaches out and whips it to wide of long on to collect a couple of runs.
Time for more spin as Ish Sodhi is into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, on middle. Virat Kohli works it to long on for a run.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Make that four in a row! Loopy ball, outside off. Virat Kohli looks for the expansive drive but it goes off the inner half back to the bowler.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Three dots in a row! Flatter ball, around off. Virat Kohli blocks it off the front foot.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A slight mix-up in the middle but Virat Kohli survives! Tossed up, around off. Kohli pushes it towards point and looks for a single but is sent back by Rohit Sharma. The fielder throws the ball to the keeper, Devon Conway and he whips the bails off in a flash but Virat Kohli was well in.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli drives but finds the cover fielder.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Went for just 2 runs in his first over.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Flatter ball, outside off. Rohit Sharma cuts it to point. The fielder there fumbles and concedes a run.
Tim Southee to Virat Kohli, Length ball, angling in from middle. Virat Kohli prods and blocks it watchfully.
Virat Kohli arrives to the middle.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! CAUGHT! Huge wicket this for New Zealand as the dangerous KL Rahul departs! Back of a length, around off. KL Rahul stays back and miscues his pull in the air towards deep square leg. Daryl Mitchell there settles under it and takes a good catch. KL Rahul must be gutted with himself as he has failed to capitalize on the start that he got!
Tim Southee to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, around middle and leg. Rohit Sharma nudges it to deep square leg for a single.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, around off. KL Rahul drives on the up towards the bowler. Tim Southee gets a hand to it and the ball goes towards mid off. A single taken.
Tim Southee is back into the attack. Went for 5 runs in his first over.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, around middle. KL Rahul blocks it off the back foot.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! BANG! A Rohit Sharma special now! Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit stays back and whips it way, way over deep square leg for a biggie. 15 runs off the over!
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! STREAKY! Good-length ball, outside off. KL Rahul looks to heave it away but he gets a thick inside edge. The ball goes past the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! Up and over! Short of a length, outside off. Rohit Sharma hangs back and cuts it over James Neesham at backward point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Swing and a miss! Length ball, outside off, shaping away late. Rohit Sharma stays back to cut but the ball zips past his outside edge.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit Sharma prods and defends it to cover.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul pushes it to mid off for a quick run.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, ! Width on offer and KL Rahul pounces on it! Back of a length, outside off. KL Rahul stays back and cuts it past the diving point fielder for a boundary.
Adam Milne to bowl now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Sliding down the leg side, Sharma misses his tuck and gets hit on the pads.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Tosses it up, on leg. Rohit Sharma reaches out and pushes the ball to the bowler.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Shortish again, on leg. Rohit Sharma defends it to mid-wicket.Â
Mitchell Santner to KL Rahul, Short and on leg, KL Rahul tucks it to short fine leg for one.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, On the pads, glanced to square leg for a single.
Mitchell Santner to roll his fingers now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Drifting it on the pads, Rohit Sharma defends it out.Â
Trent Boult to Rohit Sharma, ! Rohit Sharma would have had his heart in his mouth. Boult knows how much Rohit loves to pull and bowls a perfect short ball, on middle. Rohit Sharma couldn't resist himself playing a pull shot. He pulls it towards deep backward square leg. Adam Milne was present over there but puts the catch down. How costly can this prove to be?
Rohit Sharma walks out at number 3.
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! TAKEN! Trent Boult strikes early. India lose their first wicket. Full and on leg, Ishan Kishan swings the bat across the line and gets decent contact too. But he hits it straight down the throat of the deep square leg fielder where Daryl Mitchell was stationed perfectly. He grabs the catch easily. A big wicket as Ishan Kishan could be a dangerous batsman on his day. He walks back to the pavilion for a timid score though.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Short of a length, outside off, at 140 kph. Ishan Kishan slashes it towards backward point off the back foot. The ball falls just short of the fielder.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on leg. Ishan Kishan looks to flick again but misses this time. He gets hit on the pads.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! Ishan Kishan is underway as well! Length ball, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan uses the angle and flicks it over mid-wicket. Didn't time it that well but will get a boundary.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Short of a length, on middle, at 138 kph. KL Rahul mistimes his pull to mid-wicket for a run.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on off. KL Rahul guides it towards point. He retains the strike by picking up a single.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul gently taps it towards mid off.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! Just over the man at mid on! Fuller in length, on middle and leg. KL Rahul clears his front leg and lifts it. Didn't get it from the middle of the bat. The ball goes just over the man at mid on and races away to the boundary.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a good length, outside off, at 132 kph. KL Rahul dabs it to backward point off the back foot.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Back of a length, on off. Kishan gets up on his toes and defends it on the off side. A superb start from Trent Boult. Only a single from the opening over.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, outside off. Ishan Kishan pushes the ball on the off side.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Loud appeal for an LBW but turned down! Good-length ball, comes back in shaprly, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the front pad. Trent Boult pleads for an lbw but Richard Kettleborough says no.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, on middle. KL Rahul tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on middle. KL Rahul gets behind the line of the ball and defends it right under his eyes.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on off, nipping away, at 134 kph. Ishan Kishan opens the full face of the bat and pushes it to mid on.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Fuller in length this time, outside off. KL Rahul steers it to point. India and KL Rahul are undereway!Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Boult starts with a good-length ball, on off, at 129 kph. KL Rahul prods and taps it to point. A slight hesitation for a single as KL Rahul wanted one but is sent back by Ishan Kishan.
Who will bowl from the other end? It is Tim Southee.
The players walk out and line up for their respective national anthems. It is New Zealand's first followed by India's. Done with all the pre-match formalities. It is time for the action as the players of New Zealand stride out to the middle. Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are the openers for India. The players take the knee to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Trent Boult to start with the ball. Here we go...
India didn't get the dream start they expected as they were completely thrashed by the arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening encounter. The Men in Blue had no answers to Pakistan's belligerent batting that scripted a historic 10-wicket victory, leaving Virat Kohli with plenty of soul searching to do. The bowlers lacked bite with the ball and were a shade off-color. A lot of speculation has revolved around Hardik Pandya's bowling as well. It remains to be seen if he gets to roll his arm or not i
Trent Boult is down for a chat. He says that they got plenty of time to prepare and are excited to play against India. Mentions that they are in good spirits and it is an exciting tournament. Adds that the ball might swing early on and they have done enough planning. It is all about getting out there and execute those plans well. He hopes that he get the ball early and then see what happens.
Virat Kohli, the skipper of India, says that they would have bowled first as well. Adds that they need to keep wickets in hand to get those extra runs. Says that the break was too long but the players are ready and itching to get back on the pitch. Informs that there is one forced change -Suryakumar Yadav has got a lower back spasm and Ishan Kishan comes in for him. Also, Shardul Thakur come in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Informs that Ishan Kishan will open the innings.
Kane Williamson, the skipper of New Zealand, says that they will bowl first. Mentions that dew will come into play and they will look to chase. Tells that it is important for them to regroup and are up for the challenge against India. Informs that there is one change. Adam Milne comes in for Tim Seifert just to balance their bowling attack. Further adds that Devon Conway will keep.
India (Playing XI) - KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (C), Ishan Kishan (In for Suryakumar Yadav), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur (In for Bhuvneshwar Kumar), Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand (Playing XI) - Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson (C), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Adam Milne (In for Tim Seifert), Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult.
TOSS UPDATE - Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli are in the middle for the all-important toss. Up goes the coin and it lands in favour of the former. New Zealand have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in match number 28 of the T20 World Cup. The Men in Blue are yet to open their account in the mega event while the Black Caps haven't secured a win as well. Having lost one game apiece, it is the perfect opportunity for both the teams to get their first win in this match as a loss here could seriously jeopardize their semi final hopes. The stakes couldn't get any higher, could they? On that note, welcome to the coverage.
On the other hand, although New Zealand lost against Pakistan as well, they were in the game for the most part of the match. It was the duo of Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali who took the game away from them. On the bowling front, they seem fine and settled but it is their batters who need to provide some cushion. They make the most of the Powerplay but post that they seem to lose the tempo, a problem that Kane Williamson could resolve but not everytime. Historically, the Kiwis have enjoyed the wood
We are set for New Zealand's reply!
....THE RUN CHASE....
Well, India's decision to jumble things up front has just backfired on them. One of the world's best opening batsman perhaps, Rohit Sharma walked out at number 3, Kishan who got his first game of the tournament took his place. Too many questions to ask but the results are in front of you. India started with a conservative approach but neither got runs in the Powerplay nor did they manage to keep wickets in the hand. A lot of pressure was on Kohli's shoulder to deliver again but he perished
New Zealand were top-notch with the ball in their hand. The swing master, Southee and Boult combined to get both the openers out for a timid score. Sharma was dropped on the very first ball he faced but he failed to capitalize on it and then Sodhi then showed his magic and got both the big fish. Trent Boult was the pick of the bowlers as he scalped three wickets to his name. Ish Sodhi too was outstanding with the ball. Overall, it was an excellent performance from the Black Caps and they will
Right then! 111 needed for New Zealand to grab the two points. An easy target for them and they will fancy chasing it out. Will it be that easy or the Indian bowlers will play their magic? We will find out as the chase is about to start. Â
This has been the trend, isn't it? The captain winning the toss is the happier person walking back to the pavilion. Well, now it was Williamson but thanks to a collective performance from his bowling compartment against the mighty Indian batters. Also, Fun fact - For the first time, a team has failed to hit a boundary between overs 7 & 15 in this T20 World Cup. Not something Kohli & Co. would love to hear.
Ish Sodhi is up for a chat, he says that the pitch is playing slow than they expected. Mentions that their main tactic was to bowl touch slower and keep it tight. Tells that unfortunately they dropped a couple of catches but they would take this score on any given day.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Ish Sodhi has put down a sitter! Slower ball, into the pitch, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and whips it uppishly towards fine leg. The ball goes straight to Sodhi but he drops it. Just a single to end the innings! India finish with 110/7.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, In the air, but safe! Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and looks to heave it away but he gets a top edge and the ball goes towards mid on. The fielder from mid off runs there and the batters take two.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Southee bangs it into the deck, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja reaches out and looks to cut but he misses.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Some crucial runs for India here! A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja gets low and tonks it over deep mid-wicket for a biggie.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja stays back and pushes it to long on. Shardul Thakur wanted a single but is sent back by Jadeja.
Tim Southee to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Ravindra Jadeja skips down and heaves it to wide of long on for a couple of runs. Had the throw been at the bowler's end, Mohammed Shami was a goner!
Tim Southee (3-0-15-1) to bowl the final over.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Another low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja heaves it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boult errs in his line and length and hurls a low full toss, on the pads. Jadeja is up to the task as he whips it behind square on the leg side for a boundary.
Mohammed Shami is the new batsman in.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, ! TAKEN! Oh, dear! India are losing their way completely and it is Shardul Thakur who takes his walk back to the pavilion now! A slower ball, on a length, around off. Shardul Thakur looks to loft it over mid off but he miscues it high in the air towards Martin Guptill at mid off. He runs behind and takes a good catch.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, A well-directed bumper, around middle and leg. Shardul Thakur looks to pull but he fails to get any bat on it.
Trent Boult to Shardul Thakur, Back of a length, around off. Shardul Thakur pushes it to mid off. Ravindra Jadeja wanted a single but is sent back by Thakur.
Shardul Thakur walks out to bat.Â
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust and India slip further! Another slower ball, banged into the deck. Hardik Pandya stands tall and looks to clear long off but he fails to get the desired elevation and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long off who takes a dolly.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, ! No, he can't! Back of a length, outside off. Hardik Pandya hangs back, waits for it and cuts it over point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, ! A boundary to end the over, and a much-needed for India! Milne bowls it slower, into the pitch. Ravindra Jadeja shuffles across and scoops it to the right of the keeper. The ball races away to the fence.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, around off. Hardik Pandya stays back and lofts it towards long on. The fielder collects it on the bounce. The batters cross for a single.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, on middle. Ravindra Jadeja drills it to long on for another run.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, A yorker now, around middle. Hardik Pandya squeezes it out towards long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, This is top stuff from the Kiwi bowlers! Another ball, banged into the pitch, coming in with the angle. Hardik Pandya is cramped for room as he tries to cut it. The ball goes towards cover.
Adam Milne (3-0-22-1) to bowl out.
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, Short of a length, around middle. Ravindra Jadeja pulls it along the ground towards deep square leg for one.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off. Jadeja stays back and dabs it to backward point. A single taken. Excellent over from Boult so far! Can he finish it well?
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, On a length, around middle and leg. Hardik Pandya stays back and drills it to long on for a single.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Yorker-length delivery, around middle. Jadeja digs it out towards long on for a run.
Trent Boult to Ravindra Jadeja, Play and a miss! Short of a length, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja looks to heave it to the leg side but he misses.
Trent Boult to Hardik Pandya, Back of a length, on leg. Hardik Pandya whips it to deep square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full again, down leg. Pandya flicks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. End of an excellent spell from the birthday boy. Ish Sodhi finishes with figures 4-0-17-2!
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flighted delivery, on middle. Jadeja plays it to long on for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, Full and on leg, Jadeja steps out and works it to mid-wicket.Â
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly outside off, Jadeja defends it to to cover.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, In the air, but safe! Short and on off, Pandya throws his hands at it and splices it towards sweeper cover for a run.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, WIDE! Way too outside off, Pandya leaves it alone. Wide given.
Ish Sodhi to Ravindra Jadeja, A full toss, outside off. Ravindra Jadeja knocks it in front of long on for a single.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, on off. Pandya pushes it towards covers. He wants a quick single but Ravindra Jadeja is not interested.Â
Review time! Kane Williamson has opted for a review as Ravindra Jadeja has been struck high on his pad. The Ball Tracker shows that the ball would have gone over the sticks so it is NOT ! New Zealand lose their review!
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, Short of a length, outside off. Pandya stands tall and dabs it to third man for a couple of runs.Â
Adam Milne to Ravindra Jadeja, NOT ! Back of a length, on middle. Jadeja looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the pads. The batters take a leg bye. Milne appeals for an LBW but the umpire says no. New Zealand take a review. Ultra Edge shows no bat involved. Ball Tracking shows wickets missing.Â
Ravindra Jadeja is the new man in.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, ! BOWLED'EM! You miss, I hit stuff! Half the side back in the hut now for India. Good-length ball, on off. Rishabh Pant goes for a wild swing across the line. He only manages to get a little inside edge. The ball crashes back onto the stumps. Adam Milne is delighted and punches the air. India can't seem to get out of this rut!Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, WIDE! Full and down the leg side, Pant looks to flick but misses. Wided.Â
Adam Milne (2-0-17-0) is back on.
Adam Milne to Hardik Pandya, On middle, Pandya gets up on his toes and tucks it to mid-wicket for a run.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Slower delivery, on the pads. Rishabh Pant looks to beat the short fine leg fielder but couldn't manage to. A single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Leg bye! Flatter ball, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick yet again and gets hit on the pad. The ball rolls away for a leg bye.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Flatter ball, outside off. Hardik Pandya reaches out and cuts it to sweeper cover for one.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, on leg. Rishabh Pant works it to deep square to collect a run.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up, down leg. Rishabh Pant misses his flick and gets hit on the pads.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, What a stop that was! Athleticism at its best! Short ball, on leg. Pandya hangs back and smacks it towards deep mid-wicket off the top edge. The ball skies up in the air for a long time. James Neesham flies like a superman and catches the ball. He realizes that he will go over the ropes so he throws the ball back inside the boundary line. Saves five runs for his side.Â
Ish Sodhi (2-0-8-2) comes back into the attack.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Full and on leg, Rishabh Pant charges down the track and lifts it to long on. Only a single.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, On a length, on middle. Rishabh Pant tucks it to deep mid-wicket for a single. Only 4 runs from the over.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, On middle, clipped to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Length ball, on middle. Pandya nudges it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to Rishabh Pant, Fuller in length, on off. Rishabh Pant goes on his knee and looks to slog. The ball goes off the inside edge to short fine leg for a single.Â
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Slower and short, on middle. Hardik Pandya waits for the ball to come and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.Â
Tim Southee (2-0-11-1) comes back to bowl.
Tim Southee to Hardik Pandya, Good-length ball, on middle. Hardik Pandya is early on his stroke and chips it towards mid on.Â
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Around off, pushed through covers for a single. These two need to stay and build a partnership.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Flatter and on middle. Pant pushes it to mid-wicket for one more.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Slanting on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, ! TAKEN! Huge, huge wicket for New Zealand and they strike right after the drinks break. Sodhi hurls a full ball, around off. Virat Kohli gets on his knee and tries to slog-sweep it but does not middle it. The ball skies up and lobs toward long on where Trent Boult holds onto the catch. Kohli just drops his head and starts walking back to the pavilion. Worrying signs for India now.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle. Pandya solidly blocks it.
Mitchell Santner to Hardik Pandya, Another one angling down the leg side. Pandya tickles it to fine leg for a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to square leg for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Tossed up on middle. Pant tucks it on the leg side for a single.
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Good fielding! A full ball, outside off. Pandya dabs it to the left of backward point who does well to stop it. A single.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Around off, pushed to covers for a single.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, A yorker from Sodhi. Pant gets his bat down in time and blocks it.Â
Ish Sodhi to Hardik Pandya, Full and on middle, drilled down to long on. Pandya is off the mark with a single.
Hardik Pandya is the new man in.
DRINKS! New Zealand are bossing this game right now and India need another special knock from their skipper to take them to safer shores! The Kiwis would be very happy with the way they have bowled till now and have kept India right under the pump. Ish Sodhi (1-0-4-1) comes back into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Drifting on the pads, tucked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Two taken! A flatter ball, outside off. Kohli gets low and cuts it to the left of deep cover to collect a brace.
Mitchell Santner to Rishabh Pant, Darted on the pads, flicked to mid-wicket for a single.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Short and outside off. Kohli slaps it to deep cover for one more.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Just 4 runs came off his first 2 overs.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A flatter ball, on off. Kohli skips down and tries to slash at it but does so off the inner half and the ball rolls to cover.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A full ball, angling on off. Kohli prods and defends in front of cover.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, outside off. Kohli steers it down to third man for a single. Just 2 runs coming off the over.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, A length ball, on off. Kohli looks to tuck it on the leg side but gets an inside edge back on the pads.
Adam Milne to Virat Kohli, Bangs in a short ball, on off. Kohli sways away from it. He looks at the umpire thinking it is a wide but doesn't get it.Â
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, Short of a length, outside off. Pant punches it through the diving backward point fielder and takes a single.
Adam Milne comes back into the attack. Gave away 15 runs in his first over.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, on off. Blocked out back on the deck.
Adam Milne to Rishabh Pant, A length ball, outside off. Pant taps it to point.
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, This is fuller in length, on middle. Rishabh Pant eases it to long on for a run. Just 4 runs and a wicket off the over!
Ish Sodhi to Rishabh Pant, Flatter ball, around middle and leg. Rishabh Pant tucks it to the leg side and looks to get off the mark with a run. Virat Kohli though is not interested and sends him back.
Rishabh Pant is the new man in.
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, ! TAKEN! Ish Sodhi strikes now and it is Rohit Sharma who has to walk back to the hut! The move to send Rohit Sharma at no.3 hasn't worked for India and they are in a spot of bother! A half-tracker, outside off. Rohit Sharma stays back and looks to pull but it takes the bottom half of the blade and the ball goes straight to Martin Guptill at long on. He runs forward and takes an important catch.Â
Ish Sodhi to Rohit Sharma, Tossed up, around leg. Rohit Sharma sweeps it towards short fine leg.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, down leg. Virat Kohli tucks it behind square on the leg side for one.
Ish Sodhi to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli reaches out and whips it to wide of long on to collect a couple of runs.
Time for more spin as Ish Sodhi is into the attack.Â
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Flatter ball, on middle. Virat Kohli works it to long on for a run.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Make that four in a row! Loopy ball, outside off. Virat Kohli looks for the expansive drive but it goes off the inner half back to the bowler.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Three dots in a row! Flatter ball, around off. Virat Kohli blocks it off the front foot.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, A slight mix-up in the middle but Virat Kohli survives! Tossed up, around off. Kohli pushes it towards point and looks for a single but is sent back by Rohit Sharma. The fielder throws the ball to the keeper, Devon Conway and he whips the bails off in a flash but Virat Kohli was well in.
Mitchell Santner to Virat Kohli, Tossed up, outside off. Virat Kohli drives but finds the cover fielder.
Mitchell Santner is back on. Went for just 2 runs in his first over.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Flatter ball, outside off. Rohit Sharma cuts it to point. The fielder there fumbles and concedes a run.
Tim Southee to Virat Kohli, Length ball, angling in from middle. Virat Kohli prods and blocks it watchfully.
Virat Kohli arrives to the middle.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! CAUGHT! Huge wicket this for New Zealand as the dangerous KL Rahul departs! Back of a length, around off. KL Rahul stays back and miscues his pull in the air towards deep square leg. Daryl Mitchell there settles under it and takes a good catch. KL Rahul must be gutted with himself as he has failed to capitalize on the start that he got!
Tim Southee to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, around middle and leg. Rohit Sharma nudges it to deep square leg for a single.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, around off. KL Rahul drives on the up towards the bowler. Tim Southee gets a hand to it and the ball goes towards mid off. A single taken.
Tim Southee is back into the attack. Went for 5 runs in his first over.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, around middle. KL Rahul blocks it off the back foot.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! BANG! A Rohit Sharma special now! Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit stays back and whips it way, way over deep square leg for a biggie. 15 runs off the over!
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! STREAKY! Good-length ball, outside off. KL Rahul looks to heave it away but he gets a thick inside edge. The ball goes past the keeper and into the fine leg fence.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, ! Up and over! Short of a length, outside off. Rohit Sharma hangs back and cuts it over James Neesham at backward point to collect a boundary.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Swing and a miss! Length ball, outside off, shaping away late. Rohit Sharma stays back to cut but the ball zips past his outside edge.
Adam Milne to Rohit Sharma, Length ball, angling in from middle. Rohit Sharma prods and defends it to cover.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul pushes it to mid off for a quick run.
Adam Milne to KL Rahul, ! Width on offer and KL Rahul pounces on it! Back of a length, outside off. KL Rahul stays back and cuts it past the diving point fielder for a boundary.
Adam Milne to bowl now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Sliding down the leg side, Sharma misses his tuck and gets hit on the pads.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Tosses it up, on leg. Rohit Sharma reaches out and pushes the ball to the bowler.Â
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Shortish again, on leg. Rohit Sharma defends it to mid-wicket.Â
Mitchell Santner to KL Rahul, Short and on leg, KL Rahul tucks it to short fine leg for one.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, On the pads, glanced to square leg for a single.
Mitchell Santner to roll his fingers now.
Mitchell Santner to Rohit Sharma, Drifting it on the pads, Rohit Sharma defends it out.Â
Trent Boult to Rohit Sharma, ! Rohit Sharma would have had his heart in his mouth. Boult knows how much Rohit loves to pull and bowls a perfect short ball, on middle. Rohit Sharma couldn't resist himself playing a pull shot. He pulls it towards deep backward square leg. Adam Milne was present over there but puts the catch down. How costly can this prove to be?
Rohit Sharma walks out at number 3.
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! TAKEN! Trent Boult strikes early. India lose their first wicket. Full and on leg, Ishan Kishan swings the bat across the line and gets decent contact too. But he hits it straight down the throat of the deep square leg fielder where Daryl Mitchell was stationed perfectly. He grabs the catch easily. A big wicket as Ishan Kishan could be a dangerous batsman on his day. He walks back to the pavilion for a timid score though.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Short of a length, outside off, at 140 kph. Ishan Kishan slashes it towards backward point off the back foot. The ball falls just short of the fielder.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on leg. Ishan Kishan looks to flick again but misses this time. He gets hit on the pads.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, ! Ishan Kishan is underway as well! Length ball, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan uses the angle and flicks it over mid-wicket. Didn't time it that well but will get a boundary.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Short of a length, on middle, at 138 kph. KL Rahul mistimes his pull to mid-wicket for a run.
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on off. KL Rahul guides it towards point. He retains the strike by picking up a single.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Length ball, on off. KL Rahul gently taps it towards mid off.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, ! Just over the man at mid on! Fuller in length, on middle and leg. KL Rahul clears his front leg and lifts it. Didn't get it from the middle of the bat. The ball goes just over the man at mid on and races away to the boundary.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a good length, outside off, at 132 kph. KL Rahul dabs it to backward point off the back foot.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Back of a length, on off. Kishan gets up on his toes and defends it on the off side. A superb start from Trent Boult. Only a single from the opening over.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, outside off. Ishan Kishan pushes the ball on the off side.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Loud appeal for an LBW but turned down! Good-length ball, comes back in shaprly, on middle and leg. Ishan Kishan looks to work it on the leg side but misses. He gets hit on the front pad. Trent Boult pleads for an lbw but Richard Kettleborough says no.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, On a length, on middle. KL Rahul tucks it to mid-wicket.Â
Tim Southee to KL Rahul, Good-length ball, on middle. KL Rahul gets behind the line of the ball and defends it right under his eyes.Â
Trent Boult to Ishan Kishan, Length ball, on off, nipping away, at 134 kph. Ishan Kishan opens the full face of the bat and pushes it to mid on.Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Fuller in length this time, outside off. KL Rahul steers it to point. India and KL Rahul are undereway!Â
Trent Boult to KL Rahul, Boult starts with a good-length ball, on off, at 129 kph. KL Rahul prods and taps it to point. A slight hesitation for a single as KL Rahul wanted one but is sent back by Ishan Kishan.
Who will bowl from the other end? It is Tim Southee.
The players walk out and line up for their respective national anthems. It is New Zealand's first followed by India's. Done with all the pre-match formalities. It is time for the action as the players of New Zealand stride out to the middle. Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are the openers for India. The players take the knee to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Trent Boult to start with the ball. Here we go...
India didn't get the dream start they expected as they were completely thrashed by the arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening encounter. The Men in Blue had no answers to Pakistan's belligerent batting that scripted a historic 10-wicket victory, leaving Virat Kohli with plenty of soul searching to do. The bowlers lacked bite with the ball and were a shade off-color. A lot of speculation has revolved around Hardik Pandya's bowling as well. It remains to be seen if he gets to roll his arm or not i
Trent Boult is down for a chat. He says that they got plenty of time to prepare and are excited to play against India. Mentions that they are in good spirits and it is an exciting tournament. Adds that the ball might swing early on and they have done enough planning. It is all about getting out there and execute those plans well. He hopes that he get the ball early and then see what happens.
Virat Kohli, the skipper of India, says that they would have bowled first as well. Adds that they need to keep wickets in hand to get those extra runs. Says that the break was too long but the players are ready and itching to get back on the pitch. Informs that there is one forced change -Suryakumar Yadav has got a lower back spasm and Ishan Kishan comes in for him. Also, Shardul Thakur come in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Informs that Ishan Kishan will open the innings.
Kane Williamson, the skipper of New Zealand, says that they will bowl first. Mentions that dew will come into play and they will look to chase. Tells that it is important for them to regroup and are up for the challenge against India. Informs that there is one change. Adam Milne comes in for Tim Seifert just to balance their bowling attack. Further adds that Devon Conway will keep.
India (Playing XI) - KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (C), Ishan Kishan (In for Suryakumar Yadav), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur (In for Bhuvneshwar Kumar), Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand (Playing XI) - Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson (C), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Adam Milne (In for Tim Seifert), Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult.
TOSS UPDATE - Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli are in the middle for the all-important toss. Up goes the coin and it lands in favour of the former. New Zealand have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in match number 28 of the T20 World Cup. The Men in Blue are yet to open their account in the mega event while the Black Caps haven't secured a win as well. Having lost one game apiece, it is the perfect opportunity for both the teams to get their first win in this match as a loss here could seriously jeopardize their semi final hopes. The stakes couldn't get any higher, could they? On that note, welcome to the coverage.
On the other hand, although New Zealand lost against Pakistan as well, they were in the game for the most part of the match. It was the duo of Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali who took the game away from them. On the bowling front, they seem fine and settled but it is their batters who need to provide some cushion. They make the most of the Powerplay but post that they seem to lose the tempo, a problem that Kane Williamson could resolve but not everytime. Historically, the Kiwis have enjoyed the wood