Samson, Dhir blitz seals last gasp Indian win over NZ: 1st T20 (Christchurch)

Naman Dhir smashed a cameo at the end as India edged New Zealand by four wickets in a high-scoring opening T20I, chasing down 226 to finish on 230 for 6.

Sanju Samson led the pursuit with an explosive 67, while Shreyas Iyer contributed 42 to keep India on course. New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner claimed two wickets apiece, but India maintained the momentum in a tense run chase.

Glenn Phillips starred for New Zealand with an unbeaten 82, while Finn Allen added 45 as the hosts posted an imposing 225 for 4. However, India’s batting depth proved decisive, with Naman Dhir smashing an unbeaten 42 to steer the visitors home.

The four-wicket victory gave India a 1–0 lead in the five-match series and set up an exciting contest for the remaining matches.

India 230 for 6 (Samson 67, Dhir 42*, Iyer 42, Bracewell 2-37, Santner 2-39) beat New Zealand 225 for 4 (Phillips 82*, Allen 45) by four wickets.

Oct 2026.