In a display of pure dominance and cricketing brilliance, the Indian cricket. Team dismantled New Zealand in the third T20I at the Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati. Chasing a target of 154, India achieved the feat in a mere 10 overs, losing only two wickets, while this victory not only secured a 3-0 lead in the series but also marked India's 11th consecutive T20 series win, showcasing their absolute supremacy in the shortest format of the game.
Abhishek Sharma's Explosive Record
The night belonged to Abhishek Sharma, who played an innings for the ages. The young opener reached his half-century in just 14 deliveries, making it the second-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20Is, trailing only Yuvraj Singh's legendary 12-ball effort. Abhishek's knock of 68 runs was laced with towering sixes and crisp boundaries, leaving the New Zealand bowling attack completely shell-shocked. His strike rate remained well above 250 throughout his stay at the crease.
Suryakumar Yadav Joins the Party
Captain Suryakumar Yadav complemented Abhishek perfectly, scoring 57 runs off just 25 balls. The duo's partnership was so aggressive that India reached the 50-run mark in just 3. 1 overs, setting a new record for the fastest team fifty by India. The previous record was 3. 4 overs against Bangladesh in 2023. Despite losing Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson early, the momentum never shifted away from the Men in Blue.
Bumrah Leads the Bowling Attack
Earlier in the evening, New Zealand struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Indian bowling unit. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures that stifled the Kiwi middle order and claiming 3 wickets. Hardik Pandya and Ravi Bishnoi supported him well with 2 wickets each. New Zealand managed to post 153 runs, which initially seemed like a competitive total, but it proved to be insufficient against India's batting onslaught.
India's Unstoppable Winning Streak
With this win, India has now defeated New Zealand in five consecutive T20 series. The Kiwis haven't won a T20 series in India since 2019. India's unbeaten run in T20 series has now extended to 15, with their last series loss coming against the West Indies in July 2023, while the fourth T20I is scheduled to take place in Visakhapatnam on January 28, where India will look to continue their ruthless form.