133 runs in 7.1 overs: India crushes New Zealand in record chase
Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dismantled the Kiwi attack to secure a series victory in Wellington.
By Layla Petrov ·
India chased down a target of 198 in 13.2 overs on Tuesday to take the five-match Twenty20 International series against New Zealand. The victory in Wellington came with two games remaining in the schedule.
The collapse of the New Zealand bowling attack began with an opening stand of 133 runs scored in 7.1 overs. Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi built this partnership, which stands as one of the most destructive in international Twenty20 history.
Jacob Duffy conceded 26 runs in his first over, setting the tone for a rapid start. Abhishek scored 113 off 39 balls, including nine fours and 11 sixes. He was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson after receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.
Sooryavanshi added 45 off 19 balls, hitting four fours and four sixes. He had been promoted to the opening spot after batting at number three in the previous match. India reached 178-2 in just 10 overs, effectively ending the contest before the middle overs.
India captain Shreyas Iyer noted the pace of the innings, stating he had never seen a player score a hundred in five overs at the international level. He credited the openers for their exceptional play.
New Zealand set the 198-run target after winning the toss and choosing to field. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh used seam movement to dismiss Tim Seifert and Finn Allen early. Daryl Mitchell fought back with 89 off 52 balls, including five fours and five sixes, to stabilize the innings.
Mitchell formed an 86-run partnership with Allen before Allen departed with 40 off 25 balls. Bevon Jacobs finished unbeaten on 39 from 23 deliveries to help New Zealand reach their total. The next match in the series is scheduled for Friday at Auckland's Eden Park.
