India clinches series lead as Abhishek Sharma scores rapid century and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi adds quick 45
India secured a 3-0 lead in the five-match T20 series against New Zealand with a six-wicket win, highlighted by Abhishek Sharma's 113 off 38 balls and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's 45 off 19 balls.
India completed a 3-0 sweep of the five-match T20 series against New Zealand on Tuesday, winning by six wickets as the chase was completed in 13.2 overs. Opening batsman Abhishek Sharma produced a rapid 113 from 38 deliveries, hitting 11 sixes and nine fours, while 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi contributed 45 runs from 19 balls after being moved back to the opening position.
India's captain Shreyas Iyer praised the opening partnership, saying it was "absolutely stunning" and noting the quality of the strokes against a seaming ball. Former India player Sadagopan Ramesh, speaking in a video, said the decision to promote Sooryavanshi to open gave him a "chocolate" and highlighted the freedom with which the teenager batted.
Ramesh also commended Sharma, stating that his performance made bowlers wary and that the partnership set new records for opening stands, scoring 133 runs in seven overs. The target of 199 set by New Zealand was chased with 40 balls remaining, giving India an unassailable lead in the series.