India sealed the five-match T20 series against New Zealand with two games still to play, winning the third match in Wellington by six wickets after a rapid run chase. New Zealand posted 198 for three from their 20 overs, but India reached 199 for four in just 13.2 overs.

The chase was shaped by opener Abhishek Sharma, who scored 113 from 38 balls, including nine fours and 11 sixes. He reached his century in 35 balls and was named player of the match. He said afterwards: "That was the plan for us. Just get the momentum for the team and keep going."

Record powerplay sets up the chase

Abhishek shared a 133-run opening partnership with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored 45 before being caught at long-on. Together, the pair helped India reach a record 118 runs in the powerplay, beating the previous mark of 116 set by Romania against Serbia in 2021, according to Reuters.

New Zealand had earlier been led by Daryl Mitchell, who finished unbeaten on 89, after India won the toss and chose to bowl. Mitchell Santner, the New Zealand captain, dropped Abhishek on 92 at extra cover in the Wellington wind, and Abhishek went on to complete his century against Kyle Jamieson before Jamieson dismissed him, caught by Glenn Phillips.

Santner said afterwards: "Pretty tough to stop those guys when they're going." The fourth match of the series is scheduled for Auckland on Friday, with India holding an unassailable 3-0 lead.

Sources: Reuters and ESPNcricinfo