Sat Jan 31 13:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Sharma’s Blistering Innings Sparks Equipment Check, Evoking 2003 World Cup Controversy
The Story: In the aftermath of the third T20 match between India and New Zealand in Guwahati, New Zealand players were observed examining Indian batsman Abhishek Sharma’s bat, drawing parallels to the suspicions surrounding Ricky Ponting’s bat during the 2003 Cricket World Cup final. Sharma’s explosive innings helped India secure a decisive victory and an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. The incident has stirred memories of the past, with fans and analysts alike revisiting the rumors that surrounded Ponting’s performance in the 2003 final.
Key Points:
* Abhishek Sharma’s rapid scoring captivated spectators and prompted the New Zealand team to examine his bat post-match.
* The event drew comparisons to the 2003 Cricket World Cup final when rumors emerged about Ricky Ponting’s bat having a hidden spring to enhance power.
* Sharma’s unbeaten 68 runs off just 20 balls included a half-century scored in just 14 balls, the second-fastest T20I half-century by an Indian batsman, only behind Yuvraj Singh’s 12-ball record in 2007.
* Captain Suryakumar Yadav also contributed an unbeaten 57 runs, enabling India to chase down a target of 154 runs in just 10 overs.
* Mark Chapman, a New Zealand middle-order batsman, praised Sharma’s calculated aggression and acknowledged the difficulty in stopping a batsman in such form.
Key Takeaways:
* Sharma’s explosive batting performance has established him as a formidable opener, both in domestic (IPL) and international cricket.
* The scrutiny of Sharma’s bat highlights the constant suspicion and analysis of equipment in professional sports, especially when exceptional performances occur.
* India’s focus is now set on the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with their first match scheduled against the United States in Mumbai on February 7.
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