
Shivam Sharma
abplive|22-01-2026
In world of T20 Internationals, the final two overs are often a frantic scramble for survival. But for Rinku Singh, the 19th and 20th overs aren't a pressure cooker - they are his personal playground.
Following India's high-scoring encounter in Nagpur, the southpaw has further solidified his reputation as world's premier "Death Over" specialist. The numbers behind his late-innings onslaughts aren't just good; they are borderline video-game statistics.
Rinku's efficiency when the game reaches its crescendo is unparalleled.
India's total of 238/7 in Nagpur didn't just secure a win; it rewrote the history books for the venue and the rivalry against New Zealand.
A Rare Feat in Nagpur Before this match, the VCA Stadium in Nagpur was rarely known as a 200+ ground. This was only the second time a team has crossed the double-century mark at this venue. The only other instance was Sri Lanka’s 215/5 against India way back in 2009.
Highest T20I Totals vs New Zealand Rinku's late-over blitz propelled India to their second-highest total ever against Black Caps, and third-highest by any nation:
245/5 - Australia, Auckland (2018) - Highest T20I total ever vs New Zealand
241/3 - England, Napier (2019)
238/7 - India, Nagpur (2026) - Rinku Singh’s late-overs blitz powered India’s second-highest total vs NZ
236/4 - England, Christchurch (2025)
234/4 - India, Ahmedabad (2023)
India's 238/7 is their second-highest T20I total against New Zealand and third-highest by any team vs Black Caps.
As long as Rinku is at the crease for the final 12 balls, no target is safe, and no total is high enough.




