Abhishek Sharma storm sees India eliminate New Zealand from the series

India beat New Zealand by six wickets in the third T20 of the series at Wellington. With this win, the series belongs to India with two matches remaining. The side relied once again on the performance of Abhishek Sharma, following the record century he scored against Afghanistan last month.

New Zealand posted a total close to 200 in the first innings, led by Daryl Mitchell, who finished unbeaten on 89 off 52 balls. Finn Allen added 40 and Bevon Jacobs contributed 39. When chasing 199, India got off to a very fast start.

Abhishek Sharma and 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored the fastest 50 of any team in white-ball cricket in the first 2.2 overs. Sharma reached 113 off 38 balls, not only bringing up the hundred but also guiding his team to the target in 13.2 overs. After the match, Sharma explained the key to his innings with a simple plan: use the power phase to build momentum for the team.

New Zealand's remaining wickets were limited. Santner caught Iyer at deep mid-wicket for 5, while Jamieson sent Sanju Samson back to the pavilion for 18. The result is India's second consecutive T20 series win over New Zealand, following their 4-1 home victory in January.