Abhishek Sharma’s 14-ball fifty powers India to series-sealing win over New Zealand in Guwahati
Abhishek Sharma struck a 14-ball half-century and finished unbeaten as India chased down New Zealand’s target in just 10 overs in Guwahati, winning the third T20I by eight wickets and taking an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. The innings was so explosive that New Zealand players were seen inspecting his bat after the assault.
India sealed the T20I series against New Zealand in emphatic style in Guwahati, winning the third match by eight wickets to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-game contest. The chase became a statement performance, finished in just 10 overs as India overpowered the target with sustained, clean hitting.
Abhishek Sharma produced the headline act: a 14-ball fifty that set the tone for an extraordinary run-rate. He ended unbeaten on a blistering 68 off 20 balls, combining boundary-hitting with quick decision-making and fearless intent from the outset of his innings.
Suryakumar Yadav provided the ideal support, remaining not out on 57 from 26 deliveries, ensuring there was no release of pressure on New Zealand’s bowling group. Together, the pair added an unbroken 102-run partnership for the third wicket in only 40 balls, effectively turning a competitive chase into a one-sided exhibition.
A chase that left New Zealand searching for answers
Chasing 154, India lost an early wicket when Sanju Samson fell on the first ball, but the setback barely altered the momentum. The assault that followed meant the visitors struggled to find a ‘quiet’ phase, with even the more controlled overs still being expensive in the context of the required run rate.
One of the day’s viral moments came when New Zealand players were seen checking Abhishek’s bat after his onslaught, reflecting the disbelief that can follow a particularly brutal spell of hitting. The innings also placed Abhishek among the fastest Indian half-century makers in T20Is, reinforcing his growing reputation in the shortest format.
With the series effectively decided with two matches remaining, India’s focus now shifts to sustaining intensity and testing bench strength, while New Zealand will look for combinations that can slow India’s powerplay scoring and regain momentum before the tour closes.