Cricket

IND vs NZ 3rd T20I 2026: Abhishek Sharma Slams Century As India Beat New Zealand by Six Wickets To Seal Series

Abhishek Sharma's scintillating 113 off 38 balls powered India to a commanding 6-wicket victory over New Zealand in the 3rd T20I at Hnry Stadium, Wellington, on October 27, 2026. This dominant performance sees India take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series, wrapping up the contest with 40 balls to spare after chasing down New Zealand's 198/3.

IND vs NZ 3rd T20I 2026: Abhishek Sharma Slams Century As India Beat New Zealand by Six Wickets To Seal Series
Abhishek Sharma (Photo Credit: X/@BCCI)

India emphatically clinched the five-match T20I series against New Zealand on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, with a commanding six-wicket win in the third T20I at Hnry Stadium in Wellington. The architects of this decisive victory were opener Abhishek Sharma, who blasted his 11th T20I century, and a collective batting effort that chased down New Zealand's challenging target of 199 with 40 balls to spare. Abhishek Sharma Scores 4th T20I Century, Achieves Feat During IND vs NZ 3rd T20I 2026.

Β India to a dominant six-wicket victory over New ZealandΒ 

Abhishek Sharma Masterclass Demolishes Target

Chasing 199 for victory, India's innings was spearheaded by a breathtaking performance from Abhishek Sharma. Opening alongside Sooryavanshi, Abhishek unleashed an onslaught on the New Zealand bowlers, reaching his century in quick time. He ultimately scored 113 runs off just 38 deliveries, an innings embellished with nine fours and eleven towering sixes, significantly surpassing Virat Kohli's record for the most T20 tons.

The opening partnership set the tone, with Sooryavanshi also making a vital contribution before falling short of his fifty. Despite late wickets of Shreyas Iyer (5 off 10 balls) and Sanju Samson (18 off 13 balls), the result was never in doubt thanks to the rapid start. Naman Dhir (4*) and Tilak Varma (1*) were at the crease when India crossed the finish line.

New Zealand's Innings and Bowling Woes

Earlier in the evening, after India won the toss and elected to field, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 198 for 3. Daryl Mitchell was the standout performer for the Black Caps, scoring 89 runs off 52 balls, including five fours and five sixes. Indian Team Becomes Fastest To Score Team Century in T20I History.

New Zealand's bowling attack struggled to contain the Indian batsmen, particularly in the face of Abhishek Sharma's aggressive hitting. Kyle Jamieson was the most successful bowler for New Zealand, picking up two wickets for 45 runs from his 3.2 overs. Mitchell Santner, however, was the most economical, conceding only 17 runs for one wicket from his three overs. His decision to hold himself back from bowling earlier in the innings was a point of discussion, especially given the ease with which other bowlers were dispatched.

Series Domination Continues

This victory marks India's third consecutive win in the five-match series, establishing an unassailable 3-0 lead. The dominant performance in Wellington underscores India's current form and their status as world champions in the format, leaving New Zealand with much to ponder.

India's clinical display in Wellington ensures they take home the series trophy with two matches still to play, showcasing their formidable batting depth and aggressive approach.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 27, 2026 03:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).