Sharma's 14-ball fifty powers India to series win vs NZ
Sharma's 14-ball fifty powers India to series win vs NZ
Abhishek Sharma blasts a 14-ball fifty, the joint third-fastest in T20Is against a Full Member, guiding India to a comfortable chase and a 3-0 series triumph in Guwahati.
Guwahati witnessed a thrilling chase as India rode on Abhishek Sharma’s blistering assault to seal the series against New Zealand. Chasing 154, India found early momentum with Sharma stepping up after an initial wobble and blasting a 14-ball fifty, the joint third-fastest by a batsman against a Full Member nation. He stitched a rapid 53-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who added a brisk 28 off 19, transforming a tense situation into a commanding chase. The pair’s whirlwind stand set the tone for India’s pursuit and showcased Sharma’s growing reputation as one of the fearless operators at the top of the order.
This historic knock complemented Sharma’s earlier 84 off 35 in the opening game, while the second match yielded a golden duck. In the third T20I, Sharma carried the baton further, finishing with 68 off 20 as India raced to 155/2 in 10 overs, with Suryakumar Yadav contributing 57 off 26 to finish the job. The chase was backed by a disciplined bowling display as well, with Bumrah grabbing three wickets for 17 runs on his return, supported by Hardik Pandya, Ravi Bishnoi, and Harshit Rana to restrict New Zealand to 153/9.
The win gave India a clean 3-0 series sweep, underscoring the team’s fearless approach and depth in the batting lineup. The Guwahati crowd witnessed a breakout performance that could help India carry this momentum into the next assignments, as Sharma and the openers laid a strong foundation for the rest of the tour. The bowling unit matched the batters’ aggression, creating pressure and enabling quick dismissals at crucial junctures, while the fielding efforts, including a sensational catch by Hardik Pandya, added gloss to a comprehensive series win.
