Match-winner Abhishek Sharma on Wednesday said he does not view his batting role as high-risk, stressing that he relies more on instinct and timing rather than brute power after guiding India to a commanding 48-run victory over New Zealand in the first T20I. The 25-year-old opener was named Player of the Match for his explosive 84 off just 35 balls in the series opener.

Abhishek’s blistering knock, which included eight sixes and five boundaries, laid the foundation for India’s imposing total of 238 for seven after the hosts were put in to bat. Speaking at the post-match presentation, he said his approach was built on preparation and intent rather than range-hitting. “I don’t feel my role is high-risk. I’m more of a timing batter. I need to watch the ball and adapt to the conditions,” he said.

The left-hander explained that his aggressive starts are the result of planning during net sessions and studying his own batting videos to understand how bowlers target him. “If you want to strike at 200, you have to carry intent. All teams have a plan for me, but I back my instincts,” Abhishek added, noting that he focuses on maximising the powerplay without overthinking.

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India captain Suryakumar Yadav praised Abhishek’s discipline and off-field preparation, saying his success was a reflection of consistent hard work away from the spotlight. Suryakumar also highlighted the batting unit’s resilience after India slipped to 25 for two early in the innings, crediting the team for building momentum through the middle overs and finishing strongly.

Suryakumar, who scored 32 off 22 balls, also spoke about his own return to form and the crucial 99-run partnership with Abhishek. He said he felt comfortable walking in under pressure and credited his recent net sessions and practice games for the fluency he displayed. The skipper backed the team’s combination of eight batters and three specialist bowlers, saying the balance had been working well.

Lower-order batter Rinku Singh, who contributed an unbeaten 44, admitted he felt pressure due to being in and out of the side but said he followed instructions to maintain intent and finish the innings. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged India’s dominance at home, conceding that the hosts’ strong record in recent years made the contest challenging for the visitors.

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