1st T20I: Abhishek Sharma’s Explosive 84 Powers India to 48-Run Win Over New Zealand
Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 84 off 35 balls powered India to a 48-run win over New Zealand in the 1st T20I at Nagpur, with Rinku Singh finishing in style.
India began the T20I series in dominant fashion as a blistering knock by Abhishek Sharma helped the hosts defeat New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20 International at Jamtha Stadium on Wednesday.
Table of Contents
Batting first, India posted a massive 238 for 7, riding on Abhishek Sharma’s sensational 84 off just 35 balls, setting the tone for a convincing win.
Abhishek Sharma Sets Nagpur on Fire
Abhishek Sharma once again proved why he is considered one of India’s most dangerous T20 batters. Displaying fearless intent, he smashed:
- 84 runs off 35 balls
- 8 sixes and 5 fours
- Strike rate well above 200
His aggressive approach put New Zealand bowlers under immediate pressure and ensured India maintained a high scoring rate throughout the innings.
Rinku Singh Finishes in Style
Abhishek found excellent support from Rinku Singh, who played a calm yet powerful finishing role.
- 44 not out off 20 balls
- Clobbered 21 runs in the final over
- Helped India cross the 230-run mark
The duo ensured India ended their 20 overs in emphatic fashion.
India’s Batting Highlights
Other contributions included:
- Suryakumar Yadav – 32 off 22 balls
- A crucial 99-run partnership between Abhishek and Suryakumar for the third wicket
However, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan failed to capitalise on their starts.
New Zealand’s Chase Falls Short
Chasing 239, New Zealand finished at 190 for 7, despite a fighting effort from:
- Glenn Phillips – 78 off 40 balls
- Mark Chapman – 39 off 24 balls
The duo added 79 runs in just seven overs, but the steep required run rate proved too much.
Bowlers Seal the Win for India
India’s bowlers kept things under control despite the counter-attack:
- Varun Chakravarthy – 2 wickets
- Arshdeep Singh – early breakthroughs
- Hardik Pandya – key support with the ball
The consistent pressure ensured New Zealand never fully recovered.
India Continue T20I Dominance
India’s 48-run victory once again highlighted their dominance in the shortest format, driven by fearless batting and depth in both departments. Abhishek Sharma’s form continues to be a major positive as India look to build momentum in the series.
Follow MunsifNews24x7 for latest updates.
