Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the first T20 International to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Batting first after losing the toss, New Zealand scored 225 for six in 20 overs, equalling their highest-ever total against India in T20 Internationals.
In reply, India chased down the target of 226 in 19.4 overs, losing six wickets. Sanju Samson led the charge with 67 runs, while captain Shreyas Iyer contributed 42. Naman Dhir remained unbeaten on 42 off just 15 balls and sealed the victory with a six.
With the win, India registered their highest successful run chase in T20 Internationals. Their previous best was chasing 209 runs, a feat they achieved twice — against Australia in 2023 and New Zealand in 2026.
