India sealed the series 3-0 after a blistering finish in Wellington, where 15‑year‑old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi erupted for 45 off 19 balls, giving the hosts a 144‑run cushion in the final match.
Abhishek Sharma hit a brilliant century, but it was Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach that set the tempo. Together, they skidded 133 runs in just seven overs, leaving New Zealand chasing in a blur.
The partnership was a turning point: the first ball from Sooryavanshi hit a boundary, and Abhishek, running in behind, went toe‑to‑toe with the opposition’s bowlers, turning a tense chase into a runaway win. Sanju Samson, who had dominated as opener alongside Abhishek, willingly dropped down to No.3 to accommodate the youngster, a move that earned a shout‑out from Sharma: “Samson’s selflessness is what makes this team great.”
Coach Gautam Gambhir has always preached flexibility above rigid roles, and the new pair’s chemistry underlines that philosophy. With Sooryavanshi’s explosive bat and Kishan’s adaptability at No.5, India now has a blueprint for a dynamic opening lineup that could carry them into the 2028 T20 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The next challenge is the Indian camp’s preparation for the World Cup; meanwhile, the team will take on Australia in the upcoming tri‑series, hoping to fine‑tune the batting order for the biggest stage yet.