India pulled off a stunning six-wicket win over New Zealand in the third T20 International on Tuesday, riding on a breathtaking century by Abhishek Sharma to chase down a target of 199 in just 13.2 overs.
Abhishek smashed 113 off just 39 balls, including eight fours and 11 sixes, as India chased down New Zealand's 198/3 with 40 balls to spare. The victory gave India an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
The India opener reached his half-century off just 15 balls before going on to complete a sensational 35-ball century, giving the hosts a flying start in the chase.
Also read: Abhishek Sharma smashes 35-ball century as India take on New Zealand in 3rd T20I
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also made a valuable contribution, scoring 45 off 19 balls, as the duo put India firmly in control of the run chase.
Sanju Samson was dismissed for 18, while captain Shreyas Iyer managed just five runs. However, Abhishek's explosive knock ensured India remained well ahead of the required run rate.
Daryl Mitchell's 89 powers New Zealand to 198
Earlier, New Zealand posted a formidable 198/3 in their 20 overs after India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl.
Daryl Mitchell top-scored for the visitors with 89 off 52 balls, while Finn Allen contributed 40 off 25 deliveries. Bevon Jacobs remained unbeaten on 39 off 23 balls.
Tim Seifert was dismissed early for two, but Mitchell and Allen steadied the innings before Jacobs added crucial runs towards the end.
For India, Axar Patel picked up two wickets, while Arshdeep Singh claimed one.
India seal series with dominant win
India entered the third T20I with a 2-0 lead in the five-match series after winning the first two games.
Shreyas Iyer opted to field an unchanged playing XI, while New Zealand made three changes, bringing in Matthew Fisher, Kyle Jamieson and Adam Milne in place of Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson and Nathan Smith.
The hosts will now look to continue their winning momentum in the remaining two matches of the series.