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India’s top order continued their red-hot form, with Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan all producing explosive half-centuries to propel the defending champions to a mammoth 255/5. On a flat mixed-soil track, the total is the highest ever at the stadium and the third-highest in Men’s T20 World Cup history. Samson struck 89 off 46 balls, Abhishek hit 52 off 21 balls, while Kishan’s 54 came off just 25 deliveries.

India’s innings began cautiously but soon exploded as New Zealand bowlers struggled to find a consistent line. Early introductions of pacers Jacob Duffy and Lockie Ferguson backfired as boundaries flowed freely. Abhishek Sharma’s whirlwind fifty off just 18 balls set the tone for a record-breaking powerplay, while Samson and Kishan continued the onslaught in the middle overs, raising India’s 100th six of the tournament along the way.

India’s top order continued their red-hot form, with Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan all producing explosive half-centuries to propel the defending champions to a mammoth 255/5. On a flat mixed-soil track, the total is the highest ever at the stadium and the third-highest in Men’s T20 World Cup history. Samson struck 89 off 46 balls, Abhishek hit 52 off 21 balls, while Kishan’s 54 came off just 25 deliveries.

However, the final overs saw New Zealand fight back through James Neesham, who picked up three key wickets in quick succession. Samson was first to fall for 89, followed by Kishan for 54, and Suryakumar Yadav departed for a golden duck. Shivam Dube then unleashed a late onslaught, plundering 26 runs off the last eight balls, ensuring India crossed the 250-mark and putting them in a commanding position to defend their title.