India will look to maintain their winning momentum and seal the series when they take on New Zealand in the third T20I at Guwahati on Sunday (January 25). The Men in Blue have dominated proceedings so far and hold a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
The series began in Nagpur, where India cruised to a 48-run win, before backing it up with another commanding display in Raipur, chasing down a stiff target in a seven-wicket victory. Brimming with confidence, India will be keen to wrap up the series early.
For Mitchell Santner’s New Zealand, the third T20I is a must-win encounter as they fight to stay alive in the series.
India’s batting in red-hot form
India’s batting unit has been the standout feature of the series. Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav have all made significant contributions, with the skipper rediscovering his touch in spectacular fashion.
After enduring a lean patch of 23 T20I innings without a half-century, Suryakumar smashed a scintillating 82 off just 37 balls*, powering India to a stunning chase of 209 in only 15.2 overs in Raipur. Earlier, Kishan laid the platform with a blistering 21-ball fifty, ensuring India stayed on course despite Abhishek Sharma’s golden duck.
Overall, the series has largely favoured the batters, with bowlers from both sides finding it tough in conditions offering little margin for error.
India vs New Zealand 3rd T20I: Weather and pitch report
Conditions in Guwahati are expected to be ideal for cricket. The temperature will hover around 26°C during the day, dropping to 15°C in the evening, with no rain forecast. Humidity levels are likely to range between 65 and 87 per cent.
The Barsapara Stadium pitch traditionally offers good value for batters. However, early on, the red-soil surface with a light grass covering could provide some assistance to the bowlers. Once batters get set, scoring becomes easier, and another high-scoring contest is very much on the cards.
