India’s 202/4 in 13.2 Overs: Aakash Chopra’s 170‑plus Prediction Sparks Social Media Debate

Former India opener Aakash Chopra tweeted on X that a target above 170 would be a tough chase on the Wellington pitch. The comment came before India’s third T20I against New Zealand on Tuesday, when the hosts were bowled out for 198/3.

India, however, chased the 199‑run target in just 13.2 overs, reaching 202/4 and winning by six wickets. The rapid victory gave India a 3‑0 series lead in the five‑match series.

Chopra’s tweet drew criticism from fans who felt his assessment was wrong. In a video posted to ESPNcricinfo, he clarified that he had been joking about a 10‑over chase and that the pitch was indeed tricky in the early overs.

He explained:

• The ball was darting and moving off the surface.
• Wind conditions added to the difficulty.
• He had expected a 170‑plus target to be hard to chase.

India’s chase was powered by Abhishek Sharma, who scored 113 off 38 balls, including 11 sixes and nine fours. The opening pair, Abhishek and 15‑year‑old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, added 133 runs in seven overs, setting a record 118 runs in the first six overs of a T20 innings.

New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell remained unbeaten on 89 off 52 balls. The win marked India’s third consecutive T20I series victory on New Zealand soil, following 5‑0 wins in 2020 and a 1‑0 win in 2022.

The match highlights:

• India’s 202/4 in 13.2 overs.
• Abhishek Sharma’s 113 off 38 balls.
• 133‑run opening partnership.
• Record 118 runs in the first six overs.
• 3‑0 series lead for India.

To verify the announcement, check the official match scorecard on ESPNcricinfo or the ICC website.