Christchurch: India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the first T20I on Thursday, chasing a target of 226 to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, according to media reports.
India reached 230 for six in 19.4 overs after New Zealand posted 225 for four in 20 overs at Hagley Oval.
Sanju Samson led India’s chase with a 33-ball 67, while Abhishek Sharma provided an aggressive start. The opening pair added 93 runs in just 35 balls, putting India in a strong position early in the innings.
However, India’s decision to promote Tilak Varma to No. 3 did not work as planned. Tilak scored six runs off 11 balls before Michael Bracewell dismissed him.
India lost quick wickets after the strong opening partnership, but captain Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with 42 off 28 balls. Axar Patel also contributed with an aggressive knock to keep the chase on track.
Naman Dhir proved decisive in the closing overs, remaining unbeaten on 42 off just 15 balls. His innings included five fours and two sixes, helping India complete the chase with two balls to spare.
Earlier, Glenn Phillips’ aggressive batting helped New Zealand post a challenging total. India’s bowlers struggled to restrict the hosts, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceding 48 runs in four overs on his return to T20I cricket.
Mayank Yadav took one wicket for 40 runs, while Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel also claimed a wicket each.
India will look to build on the victory in the second match of the series.
