India captain Shreyas Iyer delivered an impressive counterattacking performance in the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand at Seddon Park on Sunday. The right-handed batter registered a quickfire half-century, helping India recover from an early collapse before celebrating the milestone with a unique tribute to one of New Zealand’s famous exports, Manuka honey. Iyer brought up his fifty in just 23 deliveries and marked the achievement with a hilarious gesture towards the Indian dugout.
The batter pretended to dip a spoon into an imaginary jar of Manuka honey before taking a bite, leaving his teammates amused. His celebration added a lighthearted moment to an otherwise intense series finale. The Indian captain reached the milestone in spectacular fashion during the 12th over of the innings.
Facing Nathan Smith, Iyer received a dipping, waist-high full toss on middle stump. He quickly adjusted his position by moving across the crease and used his wrists to execute a powerful flick towards the vacant square-leg region. The ball raced through the gap between the fielders and crossed the boundary at deep backward square leg for four, bringing up his half-century. However, Iyer’s entertaining knock came to an end just two deliveries later when he mistimed a pull shot and was dismissed for 50.
WATCH – Ishan Kishan Recreates MS Dhoni’s Iconic Helicopter Shot To Hit A Four Against New Zealand
India managed to post 191/8 in their allotted 20 overs after New Zealand captain opted to bowl first. The visitors endured a difficult start as fast bowler Adam Milne removed both openers inside the first four overs.
Abhishek Sharma departed for one in the second over, while Sanju Samson followed him back to the pavilion for four, leaving India struggling at 19/2.
Half-century secured, Manuka Honey served! 🍯
Shreyas Iyer brings a little Kiwi sweetness to his celebration! 💙
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However, Iyer and Ishan Kishan turned the innings around with an aggressive 93-run partnership for the third wicket. Kishan led the counterattack with a brilliant 61 off 32 deliveries, smashing five fours and five sixes. Iyer complemented him perfectly with his explosive 50 off just 23 balls.
WATCH – Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan Smash Michael Bracewell For 27 Runs in One Over
New Zealand eventually regained control through Blair Tickner and Nathan Smith. Tickner ended Kishan’s innings before Smith dismissed Iyer and Tilak Varma (6) in quick succession, reducing India to 133/5.
Naman Dhir and Nitish Kumar Reddy provided some valuable lower-order contributions, but Adam Milne returned to claim two more wickets. He finished with four scalps, dismissing Reddy and Bhuvneshwar Kumar as India closed their innings at 191/8.
