India defeated New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20I at the ACA Stadium on Sunday, January 25, to take an unassailable 3–0 lead in the five-match series. Chasing a target of 154, India completed the task in just 10 overs, underlining their dominance in front of a packed home crowd in Guwahati.
Openers Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav powered the chase with unbeaten half-centuries, ensuring India wrapped up the contest with 60 balls to spare.
India beat New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20I at Guwahati on January 25 to take a 3–0 unassailable lead in the five-match series. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav scored unbeaten fifties as India chased 154 runs in just 10 overs.
Match Summary
India’s bowlers set the tone early after New Zealand opted to bat. The visitors posted 153/9 in 20 overs, with Glenn Phillips top-scoring with 48 off 40 balls. For India, Jasprit Bumrah led the attack with figures of 3/17, while Ravi Bishnoi and Hardik Pandya picked up two wickets each.
In reply, India came out aggressively from the first over. Abhishek Sharma smashed 68 not out off 20 balls, striking the ball cleanly to all parts of the ground. Suryakumar Yadav complemented him with 57 not out off 26 balls, ensuring there were no late hiccups. New Zealand bowlers Ish Sodhi and Matt Henry managed a wicket apiece, but the result was never in doubt.
Brief Scorecard
New Zealand: 153/9 (20 overs)
- Glenn Phillips 48 (40)
- Jasprit Bumrah 3/17
- Ravi Bishnoi 2/18
- Hardik Pandya 2/23
India: 155/2 (10 overs)
- Abhishek Sharma 68* (20)
- Suryakumar Yadav 57* (26)
- Ish Sodhi 1/28
- Matt Henry 1/28
Guwahati’s Role
The ACA Stadium once again proved to be a high-energy venue, with strong local support adding to the atmosphere. Hosting a series-deciding match highlighted Guwahati’s growing importance on India’s international cricket calendar.
What Happens Next
With the series already decided, the focus shifts to the fourth T20I, scheduled to be played in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, January 28. The remaining matches will give both teams an opportunity to test bench strength and combinations ahead of upcoming international assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where was the third T20I between India and New Zealand played?
The third T20I was played at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, Assam.
Q2. Who were the top performers for India in the Guwahati T20I?
Abhishek Sharma scored 68 not out, and Suryakumar Yadav made 57 not out, leading India to an eight-wicket victory.
