India vs New Zealand 2019: 3 Takeaways from the 3rd T20I
The final T20I match between New Zealand and India produced a thrilling contest at Hamilton. The Blackcaps won the match by four runs and won the series 2-1. Meanwhile, the Men in Blue had to remain content with their 4-1 ODI series victory in the tour.
Also Read: India vs New Zealand 2019 - 3 reasons why India lost the third T20I
India won the toss and decided to bowl first. On a belter of a surface, the Blackcaps posted a huge total of 212/4. The Men in Blue fought hard and crossed the 200-run mark but fell short by just four runs.
It was a very nail-biting match with the New Zealand bowlers prevailing only in the last over. Here are three takeaways from the game.
#3 The emergence of a lethal opening duo for New Zealand
New Zealand openers came up with another reassuring performance. Their contribution in the third T20I proved to be indispensable. The 200-plus total was the outcome of powerful batting by the two openers. Tim Seifert's 43 and Colin Munro's 72 set the platform for a breathtaking total.
Martin Guptill's absence paved the way for Seifert to prove his skills. The young wicketkeeper-batsman showed significant promise against tough opposition. On the other hand, Munro produced one of his best performances of the entire series.
The duo of Guptill and Munro were not exceptional during the ODI series against India. Maybe, New Zealand can consider this refreshing combination if the regular opening partnership proves ineffective in the 50-over format.
The pairing of Munro and Seifert comes across as a timely backup option for the team to explore as they have a 50-overs World Cup and T20 World Cup in the space of two years.