India Clinches T20 Series Against New Zealand with Stellar Bowling, Abhishek’s Firepower
India showcased an impressive performance against New Zealand, securing a dominant victory in the third T20 match. With this win, India took an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
Strong Bowling Performance
The match, held in Guwahati, saw India’s bowlers shine. Jasprit Bumrah led the attack, taking 3 wickets for just 17 runs. Ravi Bishnoi provided strong support with his leg-spin, claiming 2 wickets for 18 runs. Together, they restricted New Zealand to a total of 153 for 9.
- Jasprit Bumrah: 3 wickets for 17 runs
- Ravi Bishnoi: 2 wickets for 18 runs
- New Zealand’s Total: 153 for 9
Abhishek’s Explosive Innings
In response, India’s chase began with a hiccup as Matt Henry bowled out Sanju Samson with the opening delivery. However, left-handed batsman Abhishek made an explosive comeback, scoring an unbeaten 68 runs off just 20 balls. This knock positioned him to almost break the record for India’s fastest T20 fifty.
- Abhishek’s Innings: 68 runs off 20 balls
- Second Fastest Fifty: Just two balls short of Yuvraj Singh’s record
Partnerships and Highlights
Abhishek built a significant partnership with skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who contributed an unbeaten 57 runs off 26 balls. Together, they forged an impressive 102-run stand, firmly establishing India’s dominance in the series.
- Suryakumar’s Contribution: 57 runs off 26 balls
- Partnership Stand: 102 runs
New Zealand Struggles
New Zealand’s batting lineup struggled significantly against India’s bowling. They lost three wickets within the first six overs. Harshit Rana dismissed Devon Conway, continuing his successful streak against the batter. The team could only manage a partnership of 54 runs between Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman before Bishnoi struck again.
- Glenn Phillips: Top-scorer with 48 runs off 40 balls
- Mark Chapman: Scored 32 runs before being caught behind
- Bowling Breakdown: New Zealand collapsed to 34 for 3 early in the innings
Looking Ahead
With this win, India solidifies its position as the world’s number one-ranked T20 team. The next match in the series will be held on Wednesday in Visakhapatnam, as the teams prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup starting on February 7.
This series serves as both a competitive platform and a preparation stage for the T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka.
