New Zealand’s decision to field backfires as Samson, Sharma and Kishan hit fifties in Ahmedabad
India’s Ishan Kishan in action. Photo: Reuters
A blistering innings from Sanju Samson helped India post a formidable total of 255/5 against New Zealand in the final of the T20 World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
New Zealand won the toss and elected to field, but the decision quickly backfired as India’s opening pair of Samson and Abhishek Sharma launched an aggressive start, scoring 92 runs during the powerplay.
The duo put together a 98-run opening stand before New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner introduced spinner Rachin Ravindra into the attack. Ravindra struck with his very first delivery, dismissing Sharma, who had scored a rapid 52 off 21 balls, including six fours and three sixes.
Samson continued his strong form, bringing up another half-century and building a second major partnership with Ishan Kishan. The pair added 105 runs over the next eight overs to maintain India’s momentum.
With five overs remaining and only one wicket down, India appeared on course to surpass 280. However, New Zealand mounted a brief comeback when James Neesham claimed three wickets in a single over, removing both set batters.
Samson scored 89 from 46 deliveries, hitting eight sixes and five fours, while Kishan contributed a quick 54 off 25 balls, including four sixes and four boundaries.
Although captain Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed off the first ball he faced, late hitting from Shivam Dube, who struck 26 from just eight deliveries, lifted India to 255/5 at the end of their innings.
Despite Neesham’s three wickets, New Zealand’s bowlers endured a difficult outing, with all conceding more than 13 runs per over. Lockie Ferguson had the most expensive spell, giving away 48 runs in his two overs.
