India delivered a breathtaking performance to thrash New Zealand by 8 wickets in the third and final T20I at Barsapara Stadium, completing a commanding 3-0 series whitewash.
After winning the toss and opting to field, India’s bowlers restricted New Zealand to a modest 153/8 in their 20 overs. The visitors struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Indian attack, with regular wickets preventing any substantial partnerships.
The chase, however, turned into a one-sided spectacle. Openers Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma launched an explosive assault, racing to 90/0 in the powerplay. Kishan fell for a quickfire 34, but Abhishek continued the onslaught, racing to an unbeaten 65 off just 30 balls. Captain Suryakumar Yadav joined the party with a classy unbeaten 51, as the pair finished the game in a mere 10 overs – India’s fastest successful chase of a 150+ target in T20I history.
The victory underscored India’s dominance in the shortest format under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. The team showcased aggressive intent with the bat while maintaining control with the ball throughout the series, never allowing New Zealand a foothold.
Abhishek Sharma, named Player of the Match, said post-game: “The plan was simple – go hard from ball one. The pitch was good, and we wanted to finish it quickly.”
This comprehensive whitewash boosts India’s confidence ahead of upcoming white-ball assignments and reinforces their status as one of the most formidable T20 sides in world cricket.
New Zealand will look to regroup as they head home, while India celebrates yet another dominant home series triumph.
