India delivered a dominant performance to clinch the five-match T20I series against New Zealand by taking a 3-0 lead, securing an emphatic eight-wicket victory in Guwahati’s ACA Stadium.
Chasing a modest target of 154, the Men in Blue dismantled the attack and polished off the runs in just 10 overs, showcasing explosive batting firepower and shrewd bowling display ahead of the T20 World Cup.
New Zealand’s innings never quite took off. Despite some resistance, they were restricted to 153, a total that proved far too inadequate against India’s in-form line-up. Jasprit Bumrah led the bowling charge with trademark precision, claiming three wickets for 17 in four overs. His mastery over yorkers, bouncers, and clever variations made him a constant threat, particularly in the middle and death phases. Ravi Bishnoi, making a return to the side after nearly a year, impressed with two wickets for 18 runs, while Hardik Pandya chipped in with two to round off a strong collective effort from the bowlers.
India lost Sanju Samson early for a golden duck, bowled by a straightforward delivery from Matt Henry that he failed to connect while attempting a flick. This dismissal extended his challenging phase in T20Is, where he has struggled to find consistency. Over his last several innings as an opener since early 2025, his scores have been underwhelming, and his overall T20I numbers in recent times reflect an average hovering below 25 across more than 50 matches, with a prolonged drought without a fifty-plus score in the format.
Sanju’s exit handed the initiative to Ishan Kishan, who seized it with characteristic aggression. In a brief but impactful stay of 13 balls, Kishan smashed 28 runs, including three fours and two sixes, injecting immediate momentum into the chase and reinforcing his strong claims for a regular spot in the XI. His fearless approach stood in contrast to the pressure building on his teammate.
What followed was a masterclass from Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav. Abhishek unleashed carnage from the outset, racing to a blistering half-century off 14 balls. His thunderous stroke play left the bowlers with no answers, underlining his growing status as one of the world’s most destructive T20 talents and a vital asset in the Indian batting order. Suryakumar, batting with trademark fluency, compiled his second consecutive fifty, reaching the milestone in 25 balls, through a series of elegant and powerful shots that evoked memories of his peak form.
The partnership between Abhishek and Suryakumar was clinical, turning what could have been a competitive chase into a one-sided affair. With the ball sailing into the stands repeatedly, India surged past the target with 10 overs to spare, sealing not just the match but the series in commanding fashion.
This comprehensive win highlights several encouraging signs for India as they gear up for bigger challenges. The batting unit, led by Abhishek’s explosiveness, Suryakumar’s class, and Kishan’s intent, is hitting peak rhythm at the ideal time.
For Sanju, however, the next two games, starting with the fourth T20I in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, represent a crucial window to rediscover his touch. Rather than spectating as his teammates dominate, he will need to convert opportunities into meaningful contributions to strengthen his position in the side. Or else, Kishan could soon pip him as opener.
India’s momentum is building, and with two more matches remaining in the series, the team management has the luxury of rotating players while maintaining their winning streak.
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