The youngster had missed the entirety of the recent five-match T20I series against the West Indies and was also absent from the opening encounter of the current series against the Black Caps. His opportunity arrived following an injury to Ishan Kishan, who was ruled out of the second match after sustaining a right adductor strain during the series opener.
Struggling chase in Christchurch
Tasked with helping India chase down a target of 181, Sooryavanshi struggled to find his rhythm at the crease. He managed only four runs from eight deliveries before his innings was cut short by New Zealand bowler Nathan Smith. The dismissal occurred when Sooryavanshi attempted an expansive drive against a hard-length delivery angled across him. Failing to connect cleanly, the ball flew low toward the cover region, where Daryl Mitchell completed a sharp catch to dismiss the teenager.
The wicket of Sooryavanshi was part of a broader collapse that left India in a precarious position at 83/5 after 12 overs. Alongside the youngster, captain Shreyas Iyer also fell as the Indian batting lineup faltered against the disciplined New Zealand attack. Earlier in the day, the hosts had posted a competitive total of 180/5, with contributions throughout their order putting significant pressure on the Indian bowling unit.
