India Dominates New Zealand in 3rd T20I, Clinches Series 3-0 in Guwahati

India Seals Series with Commanding Performance in Guwahati

Guwahati, India – India delivered a commanding performance against New Zealand in the third T20 International on Sunday, January 25, 2026, securing an emphatic eight-wicket victory at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. This win not only sealed the five-match series 3-0 in India's favor but also showcased the team's formidable prowess in the shortest format of the game.

Toss and Bowling Dominance

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision influenced by the conditions and the expectation of dew later in the evening. The Indian bowlers justified the decision with a disciplined effort, restricting the New Zealand batting lineup to 153 runs for 9 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah led the attack with an outstanding spell, claiming 3 wickets for 17 runs. He was well-supported by wrist-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who impressed on his return to the side with 2 wickets for 18 runs. All-rounder Hardik Pandya also contributed with two wickets. New Zealand's innings struggled early, falling to 34/3 within the powerplay. Glenn Phillips was the top scorer for the Black Caps, battling alone to make 48 runs off 40 balls.

Explosive Chase Led by Sharma and Yadav

Chasing a target of 154, India's innings began with an early setback as Sanju Samson was dismissed for a golden duck. However, openers Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan quickly turned the tide with a fierce counterattack, adding 53 runs in just 19 balls before Kishan departed for 28 runs. Abhishek Sharma continued his blistering assault, reaching his half-century in just 14 balls, marking India's second-fastest T20I fifty. He remained unbeaten on a sensational 68 runs off 20 balls. Captain Suryakumar Yadav joined the onslaught, matching Sharma's aggression with an unbeaten 57 runs off 26 deliveries. Their unbroken 102-run partnership for the third wicket ensured India overhauled the target in a mere 10 overs, reaching 155 for 2 wickets with 60 balls to spare. This remarkable chase of 154 in 10 overs stands as the fastest run chase of 150 or more by a full member nation in T20I history.

Series Domination Continues

The comprehensive victory underscores India's dominant performance throughout the series, having secured a 3-0 lead with two matches still to play. The team's aggressive batting and effective bowling have reinforced their position as a top-ranked T20 side.