India pulled off their highest successful chase, beating New Zealand 226‑225 in Christchurch. The match saw Sanju Samson blaze to 67 off 33, including eight fours and four sixes, giving the hosts a solid platform.
Shreyas Iyer added 42, while Naman Dhir finished unbeaten on 42 from just 15 balls, turning the tide when wickets fell. New Zealand’s 225‑run total was anchored by Glenn Phillips’ 82* and Finn Allen’s 45 off 24.
The middle overs were a rollercoaster: spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell snared three wickets for seven runs, dragging India from a 94‑1 start to 122‑4. Long boundaries from Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma added to the collapse, but Samson’s partnership with Abhishek Sharma kept the chase alive.
In the final minutes, a dropped catch by Finn Allen in the 15th over and Naman’s quickfire boundaries lifted India to the finish line with two balls to spare. The win not only sets a new record but also gives India a 1‑0 advantage in the series.
The second T20I will take place at Hagley Oval on Saturday, where India will look to extend their lead and keep the pressure on New Zealand.