India produced a masterclass in T20 run-chasing during the third match of their series in Wellington, effortlessly overhauling New Zealand’s target of 198 to secure a 4-wicket win. With this result, India takes an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series, leaving the hosts with only pride to play for in the remaining two fixtures.
New Zealand, who were sent in to bat after losing the toss, posted a formidable total of 198, largely thanks to an unbeaten 89 from Daryl Mitchell. However, the target proved insufficient as India’s openers launched an aggressive assault from the first ball. Abhishek Sharma and 15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi combined for a staggering 133 runs in just 44 balls, setting an impossible pace for the Kiwi bowlers.
The intensity of India’s batting was unprecedented, reaching 50 runs in just 2.2 overs and eclipsing the 100-run mark within five overs. By the end of the powerplay, India had racked up 118 runs, setting a new record for the highest score in a powerplay by a full-member nation in international T20 history.
Abhishek Sharma led the destruction, smashing 113 runs off just 38 deliveries with 11 sixes and 9 fours. The left-hander reached his century in just 35 balls—his fourth in international T20 cricket. Notably, this feat follows his explosive 30-ball century against Afghanistan last month. At the other end, teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshi contributed a rapid 45 off 19 deliveries, effectively removing New Zealand from the contest. India ultimately reached the winning target of 202 runs in just 13.2 overs, confirming their clinical dominance throughout the match.
