Dashing opener Abhishek Sharma underlined the value of instinct and timing over brute power after playing a starring role in India’s commanding opening T20I win against New Zealand here on Wednesday.

Also Read: 1st T20I: Abhishek Sharma fireworks power India to 48-run win over New Zealand

The 25-year-old produced a breathtaking 35-ball 84, smashing eight sixes and five fours, as India piled up 238 for 7 before cruising to a 48-run victory in the series opener. Abhishek was deservedly named Player of the Match.

“We had a clear plan from day one, and we’re sticking to it,” Abhishek said at the post-match presentation. “If you want to strike at 200, intent is everything. All teams come with plans against me, so it’s about trusting my preparation and backing my instincts.”

The left-hander stressed that his approach isn’t built on reckless power-hitting.

“I don’t see my role as high-risk. I never do range-hitting. I’m more of a timing batter. I like to watch the ball and understand the conditions. I plan all this in my net sessions. Watching batting videos also helps you understand where bowlers tend to bowl to you,” he added.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav lavished praise on Abhishek’s discipline and work ethic, saying the opener was now enjoying the rewards of his behind-the-scenes effort.

“It’s not just about how he bats in matches. It’s how he prepares, how he carries himself in the hotel, on the team bus—those small things reflect on the field,” Suryakumar said.

The skipper also applauded India’s batting depth and resilience after early setbacks.

“We were 25 for 2 in the powerplay, but the batters took the game deep till the 15th over and then never stopped. Getting those runs on the board, especially with some dew later, was a big positive,” he said.

On India’s combination of eight batters and three strike bowlers, Suryakumar kept it simple. “If it’s working, let’s continue with it.”

Suryakumar himself showed signs of a return to form, scoring 32 off 22 balls and stitching a crucial 99-run partnership with Abhishek.

“I walked in at the perfect time under pressure. I’ve been batting really well in the nets, so it was only a matter of time. My identity doesn’t change—what you saw today came naturally,” he said.

Despite a few fielding lapses, the India captain stood by his players.

“With heavy dew, these things can happen. I’m backing my fielders. We’ll keep improving—that’s always the aim,” he added.

Lower-order batter Rinku Singh, who contributed a valuable 44, admitted to feeling pressure due to inconsistent selection.

“I was in and out of the team, so there was pressure. The plan was to rotate strike and then go hard. GG sir told me to keep the intent, and I focused on staying till the end,” Rinku said.

“We want to carry this confidence into the World Cup and win it.”

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged India’s dominance at home.

“India are a very strong side at home. Their record over the last two years is outstanding. We knew it would be tough, but it was a good game for us,” Santner said.
(By PTI Inputs)