Arshdeep Singh Sets New T20I Record as India Triumphs Over New Zealand

In a thrilling match in Christchurch, Arshdeep Singh made history by becoming India's highest wicket-taker in T20 internationals for a calendar year. His remarkable performance helped India secure a victory over New Zealand, leading the series 2-0. This article delves into the match highlights, Arshdeep's impressive statistics, and the key moments that defined the game. Discover how India's cricketing star is making waves on the international stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 24, 2026, 17:30 IST

Arshdeep Singh Makes History

In Christchurch, New Zealand, on October 24, Indian left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh etched his name in the record books by becoming the highest wicket-taker for India in T20 internationals within a single calendar year. He surpassed the previous record held by veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar, which had stood for four years. In the second T20I match, Arshdeep delivered an impressive performance, claiming 2 wickets for 33 runs in four overs, dismissing Tim Seifert and Glenn Phillips.

Arshdeep's Impressive Stats

Currently, Arshdeep is just two wickets shy of becoming the first Indian bowler to achieve 150 T20I wickets. This year, he has taken 38 wickets at an average of 24.78 and an economy rate of 9.25, with his best bowling figures being 5 for 51. In comparison, Bhuvneshwar Kumar had taken 37 wickets in 32 matches at an average of 19.56, including two four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul. The record for the most wickets in T20Is during a calendar year is held by Ireland's Joshua Little, who took 39 wickets in 2022.

Match Summary and India's Win

New Zealand's Comeback

In the match, India won the toss and opted to bowl first. They quickly had New Zealand struggling at 41 for 3 during the powerplay. However, Glenn Phillips (70 runs off 46 balls, including four fours and six sixes) and Bevon Jacobs (58 runs off 46 balls, with five fours and a six) mounted a strong recovery, forming a 116-run partnership for the fourth wicket and helping New Zealand reach a total of 180 for 5 in their 20 overs. Alongside Arshdeep's 2 for 33, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav, and Nitish Kumar Reddy each took one wicket.

India's Chase

In pursuit of 181 runs, India faced a dramatic collapse, going from 40 for 0 to 112 for 6, largely due to Mitchell Santner's four wickets wreaking havoc in the middle overs. However, Naman Dhir provided a glimmer of hope with a quick 31 runs off 17 balls, hitting one four and three sixes. Ultimately, it was Tilak Varma (51 not out off 26 balls, with six fours and a six) and Nitish Kumar (26 not out off 13 balls, with one four and one six) who guided India to victory with just one ball remaining. With this win, India leads the five-match series 2-0.