India skipper Hardik Pandya might be happy to be level in the series but he still thought the Ekana Sports City pitch was a shocker. The hosts only just reached a modest 100 run target inside their 20 overs on a diabolical surface.
India vs New Zealand | Third T20I | Wednesday 1 February 2023 | The Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad | 15:30
To Win Match
India 47/100 | Tie 25/1 | New Zealand 7/4
India have such a strong batting lineup that the pitch they rolled out last time out makes very little sense.
After losing the opener, India’s batters weren’t really allowed to find their rhythm and very nearly butchered the chase.
Suryakumar Yadav has become one of the most consistent T20I batters in the world and goes about his work at a smart rate.
Umran Malike gets another chance to impress with India’s big guns in the pace department absent.
New Zealand won’t be too discouraged by the outcome last time out given the extreme nature of the pitch.
The Black Caps lived up to their reputation as a never say die kind of outfit as they fought to the bitter end.
New Zealand will be desperate to unleash their potent top order on a decent pitch in the decider.
Finna Allen and Devon Conway are in good form and could be tough to stop if the wicket plays true.
Verdict: India 47/100
The home side should have all the aces up their sleeves in the series decider.
