Abhishek Sharma’s Explosive 84 Drives India to 238/7 Against New Zealand

New Zealand won the toss and elected to field first in the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Jamtha, Nagpur. That decision quickly came under pressure after India made an aggressive batting display from the very first over.

India maintained attacking intent, despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Following the cheap fall of Sanju Samson in the second over, Abhishek Sharma responded with a sensational counterattack that swung the momentum firmly in India’s favour.

Abhishek made 84 off just 35 balls. He struck 5 fours and 8 sixes at a rate of 240.00, and his fearless attitude dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack, especially in the powerplay and the middle overs. He completed his half-century within 22 balls and was a clean hitter with superlative shot selection as India raced to 100 inside nine overs.

The innings was supported by Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, and anchored by Suryakumar in the middle. The captain made a 32 and kept rotating the strike as Abhishek continued attacking. The pair added vital runs, and India was far ahead of the needed run rate.

India lost some momentum after Abhishek was dismissed at the end of the 12th over. Hardik Pandya scored 25 off 16 balls, but Shivam Dube got out early.

The late impetus came from Rinku Singh, who remained unbeaten in 44 out of 20 deliveries. He hit four boundaries and three sixes, as well as putting India over the 230-run mark. Arshdeep Singh also added useful runs at the end of the innings that were useful in closing the innings for India.

Jacob Duffy was most economical and completed with figures of 2 and 27. Kyle Jamieson picked up two wickets but conceded 54 runs. Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner did not find much respect because India took advantage of the batting conditions.

India completed on 238 for 4 in their 20 overs, setting a good start for India vs New Zealand 1st T20I.