In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, India produced a ruthless all-round performance to crush New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20 International at Guwahati on Sunday. This comprehensive victory allowed the hosts to pocket the five-match series with an emphatic 3-0 scoreline, showcasing their dominance in the shortest format of the game.
Bowlers Set the Stage with Disciplined Attack
After winning the toss, India opted to field first, a decision their bowlers justified with a disciplined and aggressive display. Jasprit Bumrah led the attack superbly, finishing with exceptional figures of 3 for 17 and setting the tone from the very outset. His precision and control put immediate pressure on the New Zealand batting lineup.
Harshit Rana struck early to remove the dangerous Devon Conway, while Hardik Pandya maintained tight lines and picked up two crucial wickets, including those of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell. The spin department was equally effective, with Ravi Bishnoi delivering an outstanding performance in the middle overs. Bishnoi claimed 2 for 18 and broke a crucial partnership by dismissing both Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman, preventing New Zealand from building any substantial momentum.
New Zealand's Struggle Against Persistent Indian Attack
Glenn Phillips emerged as New Zealand's top-scorer with a fighting 48, while Mark Chapman contributed 32 and captain Mitchell Santner added a late 27. However, the visitors struggled to build sustained partnerships as wickets fell at regular intervals. Despite Santner's late hitting, New Zealand were restricted to a modest total of 153 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs, a target that always seemed within India's reach given their batting firepower.
Explosive Batting Seals Dominant Chase
In reply, India made light work of the chase, though they suffered an early setback when Sanju Samson was bowled first ball. This early dismissal only sparked a fierce counterattack from the Indian batting lineup. Ishan Kishan played a brisk knock before falling, setting the platform for what would become a spectacular partnership.
Abhishek Sharma was absolutely sensational, blasting an unbeaten 68 off just 20 balls in a display of pure power-hitting. Captain Suryakumar Yadav complemented him perfectly with a trademark innings of 57 not out from just 26 deliveries. The duo punished anything loose from the New Zealand bowlers, found boundaries at will, and kept the scoreboard racing at an astonishing pace.
Record-Breaking Chase Highlights India's Depth
India reached the target of 155 for the loss of just two wickets in a mere 10 overs, completing one of their most dominant chases in T20I cricket history. This comprehensive win not only sealed the series for India but also highlighted their incredible depth, growing confidence, and formidable firepower as they continue to build momentum on the international stage.
The victory at Guwahati serves as a strong statement of intent from the Indian cricket team, demonstrating their ability to dominate opponents across all departments. With the series already secured, India will now look to extend their winning streak in the remaining matches, further solidifying their position as one of the top contenders in world cricket.
