Our Bureau
Wellington
Abhishek Sharma smashed a breathtaking 38-ball 113 as India defeated New Zealand by six wickets in the third T20 International on Tuesday, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series with two matches remaining.
Chasing a target of 199, India reached 199 for four in just 13.2 overs, producing one of the most explosive batting performances of the series. The victory was built around a record-breaking opening partnership between Abhishek and 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored 45 off 19 balls.
The pair added 133 runs in just 7.1 overs, taking India to 118 without loss in the powerplay, the highest powerplay total in men’s T20 internationals. Abhishek completed his century in just 35 balls, underlining India’s dominance against the New Zealand bowling attack.
Abhishek’s innings featured nine fours and 11 sixes, while Sooryavanshi provided equally aggressive support before being dismissed. Abhishek eventually fell for 113, caught by Glenn Phillips off Kyle Jamieson, but the result was virtually sealed by then.
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 198 for three in their 20 overs after being asked to bat first. Daryl Mitchell led the home side’s recovery with an unbeaten 89 off 52 deliveries, striking five fours and five sixes.
Finn Allen contributed 40 off 25 balls, combining with Mitchell in an 86-run partnership for the second wicket. Bevon Jacobs added an unbeaten 39 off 23 balls, helping New Zealand build a strong total despite India’s efforts to restrict the scoring in the final five overs.
For India, Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel and Nitish Kumar Reddy claimed one wicket each.
The win gives India a decisive advantage in the series and reinforces their aggressive approach in the shortest format. The fourth T20I will be played in Auckland on Friday, with New Zealand seeking to end India’s winning run before the final match.