Indian cricketers bounce back to level T20 series 1-1

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The Indian cricket team made a terrific comeback in the ongoing Twenty20 International series against New Zealand after thrashing the Kiwis by seven wickets in Auckland on Friday.

The Indian side, led by Rohit Sharma, bowled first after the Black Caps elected to bat first in the second game of the three-match series. However, the Indian bowlers, spearheaded by the brothers – Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya – restricted the home side to 158 for eight wickets.

India's Krunal Pandya (L) celebrates the wicket of New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell (R) during game two of the Twenty20 International series in the Eden Park, Auckland. /VCG Photo

All-rounder Colin de Grandhomme played a blistering innings of 50 off just 28 deliveries while middle-order mainstay Ross Taylor chipped in with a quickfire 42 off 36 balls to contribute to their country's total. Krunal Pandya picked up three wickets and Khaleel Ahmed grabbed two late wickets to check their opponent's progress.

In reply, the Indian opening duo of skipper Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan made a blazing start and put together a 79-run stand in the first wicket. However, after southpaw Dhawan departed for 30, Sharma's 50 off 29 balls, supported by wicket-keeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 40 from 28 deliveries helped the Men in Blue wrap up their must-win match to draw level in the series.

India's Rohit Sharma hits a six during game two of the Twenty20 International series against New Zealand at the Eden Park, Auckland. /VCG Photo

Pandya was chosen the Player of the Match for his match-winning bowling performance. The third and final match will be played in Hamilton on Sunday.