Abhishek Sharma put on a spectacular show against New Zealand, smashing an impressive 84 runs as India secured a commanding 48-run victory in the first T20I on Wednesday. His explosive 35-ball innings powered India to a formidable total of 238-7. Rinku Singh also made a significant impact, finishing with an unbeaten 44 off just 20 deliveries.
In response, New Zealand managed to score 190-7 in their allotted overs. Glenn Phillips was the standout performer for the Kiwis, scoring 78 runs off 40 balls, while Mark Chapman added 39 runs from 24 deliveries. India’s Varun Chakravarthy (2-37) and Shivam Dube (2-28) each took two wickets, helping to restrict New Zealand’s chase.
Earlier in the match, Abhishek, the world’s top-ranked T20I batter, displayed his dominance, hitting eight massive sixes and five fours, leaving New Zealand’s fielders scrambling. His aggressive batting not only showcased his talent but also allowed captain Suryakumar Yadav (32 off 22 balls) to settle in, as they shared a rapid 99-run partnership for the third wicket in just 47 balls.
Rinku Singh’s late surge contributed to a thrilling finish, as he played a vital role in India’s innings, which concluded in spectacular style. Abhishek wasted no time, hitting his first six off just his fifth ball against Jacob Duffy (2-27 in four overs), marking a powerful statement.
Key Statistics:
– India’s 238-7 marks their highest T20I score against New Zealand.
– Abhishek Sharma now holds the record for the most fifties in T20Is (eight) off 25 balls or fewer, surpassing Phil Salt, Suryakumar, and Evin Lewis.
– He recorded the most sixes (eight) by an Indian in a T20I innings against New Zealand.
– Suryakumar Yadav crossed the 9000-run milestone in T20s, becoming the fourth Indian to achieve this feat, joining the ranks of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shikhar Dhawan.