Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered a historic demolition of New Zealand at the Hnry Stadium, smashing a world-record 118-run powerplay partnership to chase down 199 in just 13.2 overs. The explosive opening stand left the Kiwi bowlers helpless, reducing a competitive target to a formality and securing a 3-0 series lead for India with two matches remaining. This dominant performance has sparked widespread reaction across social media, with fans and pundits alike declaring the duo’s combination “illegal” due to their relentless aggression and precision.
India’s world-record powerplay stand dismantles New Zealand to seal a 3-0 series victory.
Sharma was the primary architect of the rout, equalling Rohit Sharma’s record for the fastest century by an Indian in T20Is by reaching his hundred off just 35 balls. He finished with a monstrous 113 off 38 deliveries at a strike rate of 297, dispatching nine fours and 11 sixes before Kyle Jamieson finally dismissed him in the 10th over. Sooryavanshi provided crucial stability and acceleration alongside him, ensuring the partnership remained unbroken through the first six overs, a feat never before achieved in men’s T20I history.
Former India captain Irfan Pathan and analyst Vikrant Gupta highlighted the tactical brilliance of the opening pair, noting how their shared responsibility and high-risk approach neutralized New Zealand’s best bowling attack. The match effectively concluded before the Kiwis could adjust their strategy, as India’s relentless scoring rate overwhelmed the defense. This victory not only cements India’s dominance in the series but also sets a new benchmark for powerplay scoring in the shortest format of the game.
Source: Yahoo Sports
