India secured the five-match T20 series against New Zealand with two matches to spare after defeating the hosts by six wickets in the third T20 international, powered by a sensational century from Abhishek Sharma.

Sharma smashed a blistering 113 off just 38 balls, reaching his century in 35 deliveries as India chased down New Zealand’s target of 199 in just 13.2 overs, losing only four wickets.

Batting first after losing the toss in Wellington, New Zealand posted 198 runs. Daryl Mitchell led the home side with an unbeaten 89, but his impressive innings proved insufficient against India’s extraordinary batting display.

India’s opening pair, Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, put on a remarkable 133-run partnership in just 44 balls. India raced to 118 runs in the first six overs, setting a record for the highest powerplay score by a Full Member nation in men’s international T20 cricket.

Sharma was the standout performer, reaching his century in 35 balls—the second-fastest T20 international hundred by an Indian, alongside Rohit Sharma. Sharma also holds India’s record for the fastest century, having scored one off just 30 balls against Afghanistan last month.

His explosive innings ended at 113 from 38 deliveries, featuring 11 sixes and nine fours. By the time he was dismissed, India needed just 21 runs from the remaining 10 overs.

Suryavanshi also delivered an aggressive performance, scoring 45 off 19 balls. However, Sharma’s extraordinary assault dominated the contest, overshadowing the young opener’s contribution as India cruised to a commanding victory and sealed the series.