India opening batsman Abhishek Sharma has disclosed that young prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi invoked a famous dialogue from the biographical sports film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag during their practice session ahead of the third T20I against New Zealand. The 14-year-old batting sensation promised to maintain his fearless and aggressive approach at the crease, telling his senior partner that he would replicate the cinematic intensity in the middle during the crucial fixture.
Sooryavanshi backed up his pre-match words with a blistering knock of 45 runs from just 19 balls at the Hnry Stadium on Tuesday. His explosive start laid the foundation for a historic chase as India overhauled New Zealand’s competitive target of 199 in a mere 13.2 overs to secure a comprehensive six-wicket victory and seal the series. Abhishek himself struck a magnificent 113 off 38 deliveries, orchestrating the onslaught alongside the debutant prodigy.
Match Situation and Record-Breaking Chase
New Zealand had initially posted a formidable total of 198/3 in their allotted 20 overs, driven by an unbeaten 89 off 52 balls from Daryl Mitchell. However, the visiting Indian batting lineup turned the run chase into a one-sided affair through relentless stroke play from the very first over.
- India raced to 118 without loss inside the powerplay, registering the highest-ever team total in the first six overs of a men’s T20 International.
- The team brought up their 50-run mark in just 2.2 overs, equalling the joint-fastest team fifty in the history of the format.
- Abhishek Sharma reached a breathtaking century off only 38 deliveries, continuing his stellar run of form in international cricket.
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi contributed an invaluable 45 runs off 19 balls, setting the tone against New Zealand’s frontline fast bowlers.
Praise for Team Culture and Bowling Effort
Speaking after the match, Abhishek highlighted the selflessness within the squad, specifically pointing out Sanju Samson’s readiness to adjust his batting position to accommodate the team balance. He also credited the bowling unit, featuring Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, for keeping a dangerous New Zealand batting order under control on a good batting surface.
Keep browsing Sporting Avenue to get more interesting news from the world of sports. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to get the notifications instantly.
