India Demolishes New Zealand in Guwahati to Seal T20I Series Dominance
After two high-scoring victories in Nagpur and Raipur that went decisively India's way, the packed Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was buzzing with anticipation for another commanding performance. The full-house crowd, expecting the script to unfold similarly, was not disappointed as India delivered a spectacular display of power-hitting and disciplined bowling to crush New Zealand by 10 wickets and clinch the five-match T20 International series with an unassailable 3-0 lead.
Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav's Blistering Partnership
The Indian batting lineup, led by the explosive Abhishek Sharma and skipper Suryakumar Yadav, transformed what could have been a competitive chase into a mere formality. After the bowlers restricted New Zealand to a modest 153 for nine, Sharma and Yadav unleashed an assault that reduced the T20 International to what felt like a T10 contest. The hosts chased down the target in just 10 overs, losing no wickets in the process, showcasing sheer dominance on the field.
Abhishek Sharma was the standout performer, hammering an unbeaten 68 off just 20 balls, which included seven fours and five sixes. His innings propelled him into the record books, as he scored the second-fastest T20I fifty by an Indian, achieving the milestone in a mere 12 balls. This feat places him behind only his mentor, the legendary Yuvraj Singh, who holds the record with a 12-ball fifty. Sharma's performance was a remarkable comeback from his golden duck in the second match at Raipur, sandwiched between two blitzkrieg innings that highlighted his explosive potential.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav complemented Sharma perfectly, scoring an unbeaten 57 off 26 balls with six fours and three sixes. His return to form added immense pressure on the Kiwi bowlers, making the chase look effortless. The duo's partnership was seamless, with Yadav picking up where he left off in the previous game, ensuring India made short work of the target.
Bowling and Fielding Excellence Sets the Stage
Earlier in the match, India's bowlers executed a superb plan combined with sharp fielding to restrict New Zealand to a below-par total on a pitch that appeared favorable for batting. The visitors never managed to break free from the pressure, losing wickets at regular intervals. A brief 52-run fourth-wicket partnership between Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman provided some resistance, but it was insufficient to post a challenging score.
Jasprit Bumrah, returning after a one-match break, was exceptional, claiming three wickets for just 17 runs. His precision and control stifled the New Zealand batting lineup from the outset. Meanwhile, wrist-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, a surprise inclusion in place of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, made an instant impact on his international comeback. Bishnoi, who last played for India against England in February 2025, bowled with great accuracy and pace, taking two wickets for 18 runs in his four overs. His performance was crucial in breaking key partnerships at critical moments.
All-rounder Hardik Pandya also contributed significantly, bowling three overs for 23 runs and taking two wickets. His economical spell further tightened the screws on the New Zealand innings, ensuring they never gained momentum.
Series Clinched with Authority
With this victory, India not only won the match but also sealed the five-match T20I series, taking an unassailable 3-0 lead. The team's comprehensive performance in Guwahati underscored their dominance in the format, blending aggressive batting with disciplined bowling and fielding. The win sets a positive tone for the remaining matches, as India looks to continue their winning momentum and experiment with squad combinations.
The Guwahati crowd witnessed a masterclass in T20 cricket, as India showcased why they are one of the top contenders in the shortest format of the game. The series win adds another feather to India's cap, reinforcing their strength and depth in international cricket.
