New Delhi, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India opener Abhishek Sharma has revealed how 14-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi drew inspiration from the Bollywood film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag before playing a decisive role in India’s six-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third T20 International.
Abhishek recalled that Sooryavanshi had spoken to him during a net session ahead of Tuesday’s match, borrowing the spirit of the film’s famous dialogue, “Bhaiya, khelunga bhi waise hi” — meaning he would play in the same fearless manner.
The youngster backed up his words with an explosive 45 off just 19 balls, helping India make a flying start in their chase of New Zealand’s 199-run target at the Hnry Stadium. Abhishek then took charge with a sensational 113 off 38 deliveries as India reached the target in just 13.2 overs.
Speaking in a video released by the BCCI after the match, Abhishek praised Sooryavanshi’s aggressive approach, saying the youngster’s intent from the opening delivery lifted the confidence of the batter at the non-striker’s end.
India’s opening stand powered the team to 118 without loss in the powerplay, setting a new record for the highest team total in the first six overs of a men’s T20 International. India also reached 50 in just 2.2 overs, equalling the joint-fastest team fifty in the format, and crossed 100 in five overs.
Abhishek also praised the team’s selfless attitude, highlighting Sanju Samson’s willingness to adapt after opening in the previous two innings.
He credited India’s bowlers, including Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Nitish Kumar Reddy, for restricting New Zealand to 198/3 despite Daryl Mitchell’s unbeaten 89 off 52 balls.
Abhishek said the bowlers’ efforts helped keep the target within reach and laid the foundation for India’s emphatic, series-clinching victory.
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