New Delhi, Jan. 22 -- Abhishek Sharma scored 84 off 35 balls as India beat New Zealand by 48 runs Wednesday in the opener of a five-match T20 series.

Sharma, the world's number one T20 batter, hit eight sixes and five fours as India notched up 238-7 in 20 overs. It was the third highest T20 score against New Zealand.

Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav scored 32 off 22 balls, while Rinku Singh provided a late flourish with 44 not out off 20 balls.

Singh hit three sixes and four fours as India reached only the second-ever 200-plus total in T20s at the VCA Stadium - a first since 2009.

New Zealand fell short despite Glenn Phillips' 78 off 40 balls. Mark Chapman also scored 39 off 24 balls as the Black Caps finished with 190-7 in 20 overs. ...