IND vs NZ first T20I: Reddy, Mayank return as India elects to field against New Zealand

India chase 225 to beat New Zealand by four wickets in Christchurch, taking a 1-0 series lead as Samson stars with 67.

By Authors and Contributors · The Hindu

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 6:51 AM

Key Things to Know

India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the first T20I to lead the five-match series 1-0.
Sanju Samson led India's chase, scoring 67 runs off 33 balls with eight fours and four sixes.
New Zealand posted 225/4 in 20 overs, driven by Glenn Phillips' unbeaten 82 and Finn Allen's 45.

The Story in 60 Seconds

India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the first T20 International in Christchurch on Thursday, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Chasing New Zealand's total of 225/4, India reached 230 in 19.4 overs, anchored by Sanju Samson's 67 off 33 balls alongside crucial knocks from Shreyas Iyer and Naman Dhir.

Earlier in the match, New Zealand posted 225/4 in their 20 overs, led by Glenn Phillips' unbeaten 82 off 40 balls and Finn Allen's 45. For India, Axar Patel scored 24 while Dhir finished unbeaten on 42 to seal the run chase, overcoming Michael Bracewell's 2/37 for the hosts.

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IND vs NZ first T20I: Reddy, Mayank return as India elects to field against New Zealand

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