Abhishek Sharma smashed a blistering century as India chased down New Zealand’s 199-run target in just 13.2 overs, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead in the T20I series.
India produced a breathtaking batting performance, spearheaded by Abhishek Sharma’s unbeaten aggression at the crease, to register one of the quickest successful chases of a 190-plus target in T20I cricket. The visitors reached 199 with six wickets in hand, leaving New Zealand struggling to contain their explosive opening partnership.
Abhishek led the charge with a magnificent 113-run knock, recording his fourth T20I century. His innings featured 13 sixes, the most by an Indian batter in a single T20I innings, as he dismantled the New Zealand bowling attack.
The left-hander found an equally aggressive partner in young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored a rapid 45 off just 19 deliveries. Opening in place of Sanju Samson, Sooryavanshi made an immediate impact, helping India race to 118 runs in the powerplay—the highest total in a T20I powerplay.
The opening duo added 133 runs off just 43 deliveries, laying the foundation for India’s remarkable chase. Their assault began in the very first over, when the pair combined to plunder 26 runs and seize control of the contest.
Speaking after the match, Abhishek highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum during the powerplay.
“I think the key was pretty simple. It was just me and Vaibhav, just going to enjoy there for a bit, especially in the powerplay,” he said.
Praising Sooryavanshi’s explosive start, Abhishek added, “Obviously, the way he started the first over, Vaibhav, I think that was really special. And that was the plan for us, get the momentum for the team and then just keep going.”
India’s chase was also remarkable statistically, ranking as the second-quickest successful pursuit of a target of 190 or more, with 40 balls remaining. Estonia hold the record after chasing 193 against Cyprus in 2024 with 42 deliveries to spare.
Earlier, New Zealand had posted a competitive 198/3 in their 20 overs, thanks largely to Daryl Mitchell’s outstanding unbeaten 89 off 52 balls. The innings marked Mitchell’s highest individual score in T20I cricket.
Finn Allen contributed 40 runs, while Bevon Jacobs remained unbeaten on 39, helping the hosts build a formidable total. However, their efforts proved insufficient against India’s relentless batting display.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner admitted that stopping India’s in-form batters had been a difficult challenge.
“Pretty tough to stop those guys when they’re going. We have seen it before, we have seen it in the IPL. Obviously, witnessed it here in New Zealand tonight,” Santner said.
With the emphatic victory, India have taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match T20I series, underlining their dominance in the shortest format. The teams are scheduled to meet again in Auckland on Friday, October 30, as New Zealand look to bounce back and India aim to extend their winning run.
ICC.
