Series reaches fever pitch with a decider in Ahmedabad

While the pitch in Ranchi had “amazed” Hardik Pandya, the India skipper was “surprised” at the offer in Lucknow. And when it comes to the playing surface ahead of the series decider, it’s definitely got something to offer, with India’s proud record of 12 undefeated home series.

Ahmedabad, the venue for the third and final T20I between India and New Zealand, has had its fair share of debates around pitches in the past. And the last thing both teams would want is another difficult T20 surface that sees Lockie Ferguson bowling as many overs as Mark Chapman.

Pitch aside, India will know there is work to be done, especially with a young side trying to prepare itself for 2024. India achieved the target of 100 runs with just one ball to spare. But the challenging conditions put off the thunder, not allowing the team to assess its progress. For example, Arshdeep Singh again bowled his 20th over in the first T20 after battling some heat, but he was against a team limping to 94/8.

This is a good opportunity for New Zealand. They don’t have their frontline players like Trent Boult, Kane Williamson and Tim Southee, and are in with a shot at beating India in a T20I series at home – bragging rights for which only Australia and the West Indies have Is. last eight years. For Mitchell Santner’s side, it will be a great shot in the arm and the team is expected to present a good challenge to the hosts.

When: Wednesday, February 1, 2023 from 7:00 pm local

Where: India vs NZ, 3rd T20I, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad