With the five-match T20I series already decided Indiathe focus shifted to an interesting individual battle on the eve of the fifth and final game. New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry He laid out his strategy to counter India’s explosive switch Abhishek Sharmawas one of the most talked about performers of the series despite mixed scores.
A high-risk, high-reward performance by Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek’s journey in the ongoing series has been a classic example of modern T20 batting – feast or famine. In his four matches so far, the left-hander has scored two breathtaking half-centuries along with two ducks, highlighting both his destructive potential and the risks that come with his aggressive approach.
When Abhishek clicked, he completely took the game away from the opposition. His series-opening 84 laid the foundation for a dominant Indian victory, while his unbeaten 68 in the third T20I was even more remarkable. The knock included 14-ball fifties, the second-fastest by an Indian in T20 internationals, and showcased his ability to dismantle bowling attacks in a matter of minutes. Both the innings earned him the Man of the Match award and were crucial in sealing an elusive series lead in India.
Matt Henry’s impressive bowling in the series
At the other end of the competition, Henry has been a rare bright spot for New Zealand in an otherwise difficult series. The right-arm pacer struck consistently early and put India under pressure right from the start.
In the fourth T20I on 28 January, Henry dismissed Abhishek on the first ball of the second innings. That dismissal came after another first-ball wicket in the third T20I, which he sent back Sanju Samson. With these efforts, Henry became the first player in T20I history to take a wicket on the first ball of the innings in two consecutive matches.
His influence was most evident in New Zealand’s lone win in the series. Henry finished with figures of 1/24 in three overs and an early breakthrough against Abhishek set the tone for India’s 50-run defeat.
Also READ: ICC T20I Rankings: Abhishek Sharma tops the list, Suryakumar Yadav enters top 10
Henry talks about his plans to stop Abhishek
Ahead of the series finale, Henry acknowledged the difficulty of bowling for a batsman like Abhishek, who has earned a reputation for fearlessness not only in international cricket but also in the Indian Premier League. He emphasized that the key is in constant pressure rather than looking for magical deliveries.
“He has been playing brilliantly for the last two years and continues to attack not only in international cricket but also in the IPL” Henry said while talking to the media ahead of the fifth T20I.
According to Henry, bowlers should be prepared for a mixed attack against such aggressive shots and focus on responding strongly rather than being distracted.
“It all comes back to precision. You have to be precise in what you’re doing and you’re just trying to put your best foot forward.” he added.
