Nagpur, Jan 21: The Indian cricket team successfully defended a target of 239 runs to defeat New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20 International. A disciplined bowling performance restricted the visitors to 190 for seven, ensuring India took an early lead in the series.
New Zealand’s decision to bowl first initially seemed productive as they claimed two early Indian wickets, but they were soon met with a fierce counter-attack. Abhishek Sharma spearheaded the Indian innings, contributing a top score of 84 runs. His aggressive approach shifted the pressure back onto the bowlers, allowing India to reach a formidable 238 for seven by the end of the 20th over.
During the chase, New Zealand found it difficult to build partnerships against India’s spin and pace combination. While Glenn Phillips managed 78 runs, the rest of the lineup found no rhythm against Varun Chakravarthy and Shivam Dube, who both claimed two wickets. The victory was finalized as the New Zealand side ran out of overs well short of the Indian total.
“He hit five fours and eight sixes in just 35 balls,” a commentator directly said of Sharma’s pivotal performance.
