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Abhishek Sharma produced a breathtaking 38-ball 113 as India crushed New Zealand by six wickets in the third T20 International in Wellington on Tuesday, October 27. The explosive opening batter's innings powered India to chase down a formidable 199-run target in just 13.2 overs, securing a decisive 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Sharma's assault included 9 fours and 11 sixes, dismantling the New Zealand bowling attack with clinical precision.
New Zealand had posted 198 for 3 in 20 overs, with Daryl Mitchell scoring an unbeaten 89 off 52 balls. However, the visitors' bowling proved insufficient against India's explosive start. Mitchell, speaking after the match, acknowledged the exceptional nature of Sharma's performance and the manner in which India overpowered the chase.
"Yeah, I think we were pretty confident with 200 on the board. Obviously, batting first, we felt the ball was sitting in the pitch a little bit and there was some extra bounce. We were hoping that would happen in the second innings as well, along with the dew factor and all those sorts of things. But at the same time, the way Abhishek played was pretty special. We'll take our hats off to him and say well played," Mitchell said in the post-match press conference.
Mitchell's assessment of Abhishek's world-class hitting
India's powerplay proved decisive in the chase, with the team posting a record 118 runs in the opening six overs, the highest powerplay total in men's T20 Internationals. Sharma's aggressive approach set the tone for the innings, allowing India to build an insurmountable lead before New Zealand's bowlers could establish any rhythm or control.
Mitchell further elaborated on the quality of Abhishek's batting display, recognising the rare skill required to execute such dominant hitting at the international level. The New Zealand batter reflected on how the Indian opener's performance transcended typical match situations and left a lasting impression on all observers.
"Some of that hitting was world-class, and that's why he is one of the best in the world at what he does. You take your hat off and say well played. It was definitely his night, and I'm sure it's one that people won't forget for a long time," Mitchell said.
