Former New Zealand cricketer and noted broadcaster Simon Doull heaped rich praise on Ishan Kishan after the wicketkeeper-batter’s blistering knock powered India to a commanding win over New Zealand in the second T20I on Friday. India’s seven-wicket victory not only sealed a 2-0 lead in the five-match series but also underlined the depth and fearlessness of their batting unit ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Doull felt Kishan’s innings was nothing short of spectacular and believed the left-hander was unlucky not to walk away with a century. Reflecting on the knock during the broadcast, Doull highlighted Kishan’s rare ability to combine brute power with lightning speed at the crease.
“Ishan played beautifully. He could have gone on to score a big hundred. We know what he’s capable of—he’s already scored a double hundred in ODIs. He’s got immense power, and he scores at such a rapid pace,” Simon Doull said on JioHotstar.
India were briefly rocked early in the chase after losing both openers cheaply and slipping to 2 for 6. According to Doull, it was Kishan’s counterattacking approach that completely flipped the momentum and put New Zealand on the back foot. More importantly, it allowed captain Suryakumar Yadav the breathing space he needed to settle before launching his own assault.
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“When Abhishek didn’t get them off to a good start, what Ishan did from two for six was put New Zealand under immediate pressure. He took the game away and gave Surya the chance to settle in. At one stage, Surya was 11 off 11 balls, and that was fine because Ishan was doing all the damage,” he explained.
Doull also singled out a couple of standout strokes from Kishan’s innings, particularly a jaw-dropping shot off leg-spinner Ish Sodhi. “That shot where he came down the track and pulled Sodhi over mid-wicket was phenomenal. It showed his confidence and range. He’s got shots all around the ground,” Simon Doull added.
Beyond Kishan’s brilliance, Doull was equally impressed by India’s batting depth. He pointed out that despite the aggressive display, two of India’s most feared power-hitters—Rinku Singh and Hardik Pandya—didn’t even get the opportunity to bat.
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“If you take Abhishek out, who failed, Rinku and Hardik didn’t even get a go. Those are your real six-hitters. India were still out-sixing New Zealand comfortably. That tells you how dangerous this lineup is,” he noted.
From New Zealand’s perspective, Doull felt they missed a golden opportunity despite the early breakthroughs. He was critical of the tactical decisions and believed even a much higher total may not have been enough on the night.
“Two for six was the moment. New Zealand should have been better from there. I don’t think Mitchell Santner had a great night as captain. Honestly, I’m not sure even 280 would have been safe the way India were batting,” he said.
Looking ahead to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, Doull believes this Indian side looks tailor-made for the shortest format. He praised the blend of youth and experience, the aggressive mindset, and the relaxed team environment under Suryakumar’s leadership.
“This team knows exactly how to play T20 cricket. They enjoy it. No matter the situation, they keep coming at you. Even at two for six, the message is clear—we’re not backing off,” Simon Doull concluded.
