Batting first, New Zealand scored 180/5 in 20 overs. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 70 runs off 43 balls, while Bevon Jacobs contributed 58 off 46 deliveries. Their partnership helped New Zealand recover after losing three early wickets.
Chasing 181, India faced a serious challenge as New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner claimed four wickets for 21 runs. India slipped to 112/6, putting the visitors under enormous pressure.
However, Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy turned the match around with an unbeaten 69-run partnership. Varma smashed 51 not out off 26 balls, including six fours and a six, while Reddy remained unbeaten on 26 off 13 deliveries.
India reached 181/6 in 19.5 overs, sealing victory with one ball remaining. Tilak Varma was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
The victory puts India firmly in control of the series, with the third T20I offering another opportunity to secure the series win.
Final Score: New Zealand 180/5; India 181/6.
Result: India won by four wickets.
Player of the Match: Tilak Varma.
Series: India lead 2–0.
Source: ICC, Cricbuzz and ESPNcricinfo.
