In the second T20I match between New Zealand and India, Devon Conway delivered an explosive performance at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur. Using aggressive batting, Conway targeted Indian bowler Arshdeep Singh, leading to a record-breaking over.
Devon Conway’s Record-Breaking Over
Conway, opening the innings, quickly seized control of the match. He scored 18 runs in the very first over bowled by Arshdeep Singh, which included three boundaries and a six. This feat marked a significant moment as it tied the record for the highest runs conceded in an over by an Indian bowler at the start of a T20I match.
Historical Context
- Only the second time an Indian bowler has given up 18 runs in the first over of a T20I.
- Ties with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who achieved the same against Ireland in 2022.
Arshdeep’s inability to control the innings was evident as he allowed Conway too much freedom. The aggressive start set the tone for New Zealand, who scored a rapid 111 runs for 3 wickets within the first 10 overs.
Continued Struggles for Arshdeep Singh
Things didn’t improve for Arshdeep in his next over. After conceding another 18 runs, this time to Tim Seifert, his total in just two overs reached 36 runs. Despite the troubling start, Arshdeep was not the only bowler facing challenges, as the New Zealand batsmen took advantage of the favorable batting conditions.
Key Bowling Performances
- Harshit Rana managed a wicket-maiden, claiming Conway’s wicket for the fourth time in this series.
- Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Seifert, but then conceded 16 runs to Rachin Ravindra.
- Kuldeep Yadav also faced pressure, though he did manage to dismiss Glenn Phillips during his over.
The match showcased New Zealand’s aggressive batting strategy against the Indian bowlers, setting a challenging precedent for India as they aimed to respond with a powerful opening partnership of their own.
