Guwahati, January 25, 2026 : India continued their dominant run in the T20 series against New Zealand with a comprehensive eight-wicket victory in the third match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Sunday night, after winning the toss and electing to field.
India’s decision to bowl first was quickly justified by a controlled and incisive bowling display. Jasprit Bumrah led from the front, using pace and accuracy to dismantle the New Zealand middle order. He finished with figures of 3 wickets for 17 runs, consistently breaking partnerships and applying pressure. Ravi Bishnoi was equally effective, returning 2 for 18 with his sharp leg-spin, while Hardik Pandya chipped in with 2 wickets for 23 runs to ensure the visitors never gained full momentum.
For New Zealand, Glenn Phillips provided resistance with 48 off 40 balls, striking the ball cleanly despite limited support. Mark Chapman contributed 32 from 23 deliveries, but regular wickets meant the innings never truly took off and was restricted to a modest total.
The chase turned into a display of fearless batting from the outset. Opener Abhishek Sharma produced a breathtaking innings, hammering 68 not out off just 20 balls, an assault that effectively settled the contest within the first few overs. Ishan Kishan supported the onslaught with a brisk 28 from 13 balls before departing. The match was calmly finished by Suryakumar Yadav, who remained unbeaten on 57 off 26 balls, blending innovation with authority to complete the chase in record time.
India’s emphatic win not only highlighted their batting depth and bowling discipline but also handed them an unassailable 3–0 lead in the five-match series.
Brief scores: New Zealand 153 for 9 in 20 overs; India 155 for 2 in 10 overs.
