INDvsNZ 1st T20I: Abhishek Sharma Powers India to Dominant 48-Run Win Over New Zealand

India delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20 International of the five-match series on Wednesday, taking an early 1–0 lead. A blistering batting display followed by disciplined bowling helped the hosts assert control over the contest at the VCA Stadium.

Batting first after being invited by New Zealand, India posted a massive total of 238 for seven, driven by a sensational knock from Abhishek Sharma. The left-hander smashed 84 runs off just 35 deliveries, striking five fours and eight sixes, and set the tone for one of India’s highest T20I totals. His aggressive intent from the outset put the New Zealand bowlers under constant pressure.

Abhishek received strong support from the middle order, with Rinku Singh remaining unbeaten on 44 off 20 balls to provide a late flourish. Suryakumar Yadav contributed a brisk 32 off 22 balls, while Hardik Pandya added 25 off 16 deliveries, ensuring India maintained momentum throughout the innings. For New Zealand, Jacob Duffy was the standout bowler, returning figures of two wickets for 27 runs despite the difficult conditions.

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Chasing a daunting target of 239, New Zealand began with intent but struggled to sustain the required run rate against India’s varied bowling attack. Regular wickets at key moments prevented the visitors from building any decisive partnerships, keeping the chase firmly under India’s control.

Varun Chakaravarthy and Shivam Dube were the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming two wickets each and applying pressure through the middle overs. Their efforts, combined with tight fielding, restricted New Zealand to 190 for seven in their allotted 20 overs.

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