Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 84 off just 35 balls set the tone as India defeated New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20 international in Nagpur. Smashing eight sixes, Abhishek gave India a flying start before Rinku Singh’s unbeaten 44 off 20 balls added late momentum, lifting the hosts to a massive 238 for 7. In reply, New Zealand managed 190 for 7 despite a fighting 78 from Glenn Phillips and a 79-run stand with Mark Chapman. Regular wickets halted their chase, with Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel and Shivam Dube making key breakthroughs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav praised Abhishek’s preparation and temperament as India took a 1–0 lead in the five-match series ahead of the T20 World Cup.
