Team India pacer Prince Yadav made an immediate impact in the second T20I against New Zealand, dismissing opener Finn Allen during the powerplay at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Saturday. The young fast bowler was brought into the playing XI for the five-match T20I series and repaid the team management’s faith by delivering a crucial breakthrough in his first over.
India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first. Prince was introduced into the attack for the final over of the powerplay and struck on the second delivery to remove the dangerous Allen.
Prince bowled a full delivery on the stumps, prompting Allen to attempt a paddle sweep. The New Zealand opener shuffled across to play the shot but failed to make contact with the ball. It went on to crash into the leg stump, sending the bails flying and giving India their third wicket.
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Allen departed for 16 off 14 deliveries, providing India with an important breakthrough as they looked to restrict New Zealand’s scoring. Arshdeep Singh and Bhuvneshwar Kumar had already struck earlier in the innings, putting the hosts under pressure.
The dismissal was particularly significant because Allen had looked dangerous in the first T20I. He scored 45 off just 24 balls, including five fours and two sixes, at an impressive strike rate of 187.50. Removing him early was crucial for India as they attempted to prevent another explosive innings from the New Zealand opener.
SCOOPED HIMSELF INTO TROUBLE 😬
Finn Allen tries the fancy route, but Prince Yadav has the final say!
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Prince was not part of India’s playing XI for the series opener. He replaced fellow fast bowler Mayank Yadav for the second T20I, with Shreyas Iyer confirming at the toss that the change was tactical. The decision paid off almost immediately, as Prince made his presence felt with a valuable wicket in his first over. Mayank had finished the opening match with figures of 1/40, and Prince now has an opportunity to strengthen his case for a regular place in the side.
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Prince made his T20I debut against Ireland earlier in 2026 and has enjoyed an encouraging start to his international career. Including the ongoing match, he has claimed 11 wickets in 10 T20Is at an average of 22.27 and an economy rate of 8.35. His best bowling figures are 3/22.
A strong performance in Christchurch could improve Prince’s chances of retaining his place for the next match as India continue their five-game T20I campaign against New Zealand.
