India pulled off a spectacular four-wicket victory against New Zealand in the first T20 International at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 22, 2026. Chasing a challenging target of 226 runs, India reached 230/6 in 19.4 overs, recording their highest successful run chase in T20 Internationals.
Glenn Phillips Powers New Zealand to 225
Batting first, New Zealand posted an imposing 225/4 in 20 overs. Glenn Phillips led the charge with a sensational unbeaten 82 off just 40 balls, smashing eight fours and three sixes.
Finn Allen provided an explosive start with 45 runs off 24 deliveries, while Tim Seifert contributed 24 off 17 balls. Daryl Mitchell added 28 runs before Bevon Jacobs accelerated the scoring with 31 off just 16 deliveries.
India’s bowlers struggled to contain the aggressive New Zealand batting lineup, with the hosts maintaining a scoring rate of more than 11 runs per over.
Sanju Samson Leads India’s Explosive Start
India began the chase aggressively, with Sanju Samson delivering a brilliant performance at the top of the order. The wicketkeeper-batter smashed 67 runs off 33 balls, including eight fours and four sixes.
Samson and Abhishek Sharma provided India with a flying start, adding 82 runs for the opening wicket in just 5.5 overs. Abhishek scored 29 off 12 deliveries before Michael Bracewell dismissed him.
Samson’s attacking innings kept India firmly in the contest, although his dismissal by New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner briefly shifted the momentum.
Naman Dhir Finishes the Job
With the required run rate climbing, India needed a powerful finish to cross the line. Naman Dhir delivered under pressure, smashing an unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls to accelerate the chase.
India eventually reached 230/6 in 19.4 overs, winning the match by four wickets with two balls remaining.
India Create a New T20I Record
The victory marked India’s highest successful run chase in T20 Internationals, highlighting the team’s batting depth and ability to perform under pressure.
With Sanju Samson’s explosive half-century and Naman Dhir’s decisive finishing, India began the five-match series with a memorable victory.