India pulled off a remarkable four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Christchurch on Thursday, successfully chasing 226 to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20 series.
The Black Caps posted an imposing 225-4, their highest home T20 total against India, thanks largely to Glenn Phillips’ unbeaten 82 off 40 balls and Finn Allen’s explosive 45. India responded with a blistering opening partnership of 93 between Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, with Samson smashing 67 from just 33 deliveries.
New Zealand briefly regained control with three quick wickets, but Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with 42 before Naman Dhir’s unbeaten 42 guided the visitors home with two balls remaining.
The victory marked India’s highest successful T20 international run chase, despite a determined New Zealand fightback. The teams meet again in Christchurch on Saturday for the second match of the series.
