India’s explosive opening combination of Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered a memorable performance against New Zealand in Wellington, but a conversation between the two batters in the nets
has added another interesting layer to their partnership.
After India’s remarkable victory in the third T20I on October 27, Abhishek revealed that Sooryavanshi had shared an ambitious thought with him during practice the previous day. The teenager reportedly drew inspiration from the popular Bollywood film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and its famous dialogue about giving everything to achieve a goal.
According to Abhishek, Vaibhav told him that he intended to play in the same spirit, saying, “Bhaiya, khelunga bhi waise hi.”
ABHISHEK SHARMA WITH VAIBHAV SOORYAVANSHI SAID:
– “Yesterday, Vaibhav told me something in the nets that I will play the same way as Milkha Singh movie Bhag Milkha Bhag dialogue ‘Bhaiya, khelunga bhi waise hi'”. ❤️ (BCCI). https://t.co/wMjsdpqEIU
— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) October 28, 2026
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes an explosive start
The young batter backed up that confidence with an outstanding display at the top of the order. Opening alongside Abhishek, the 15-year-old attacked the New Zealand bowlers from the very beginning, helping India seize control of a daunting chase.
Sooryavanshi scored 45 runs from just 19 deliveries, striking four fours and four sixes. His fearless approach allowed India to race through the powerplay, setting the platform for an emphatic victory.
The opening pair accumulated 118 runs without losing a wicket during the first six overs, setting a new men’s T20I powerplay record. Their partnership eventually reached 133 runs from 43 balls.
Abhishek Sharma leads India to a memorable win
While Sooryavanshi provided the early fireworks, Abhishek produced an extraordinary innings of his own. The left-hander scored 113 off 38 balls, reaching his century in just 35 deliveries.
India chased down New Zealand’s total of 198 in only 13.2 overs, winning the match by six wickets and taking an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
Abhishek’s comments offered a glimpse into the confidence and positive mindset within the Indian dressing room. The teenager’s willingness to embrace an attacking approach, combined with Abhishek’s experience at the international level, proved a devastating combination.
With more matches remaining in the series, India’s management will be encouraged by the fearless cricket displayed by the pair. Their performance has also strengthened the excitement surrounding Sooryavanshi’s development as one of India’s most promising young batting talents.
