India rout New Zealand by 48 runs in first T20I
India thrashed New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20I on Saturday, powered by Abhishek Sharma’s record-breaking knock and a dominant all-round display at the start of the series.
Sharma smashed a blistering half-century to become the fastest player to reach 5,000 T20 runs, setting the tone as India posted an imposing total. New Zealand never recovered from early pressure and were kept in check by disciplined Indian bowling throughout the chase.
“It was one of those days where everything clicked,” Sharma said after the match, praising the team’s aggressive intent. Indian captain added that the side “wanted to make a strong statement early in the series.”
From the New Zealand camp, the skipper admitted the visitors were outplayed. “We fell behind in the powerplay and couldn’t catch up,” he said, calling for a quick response in the next game.
The win gives India a 1–0 lead and early momentum in the T20I series.