New Zealand set India a massive target of 226 runs after posting 225/4 in their 20 overs in the first T20I of the five-match series at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. This score marks New Zealand's highest-ever T20I total at home and their joint-highest total against India in the format.
Glenn Phillips Stars with the Bat
India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first, but the host batters dominated the innings. Glenn Phillips led the assault with a fiery unbeaten 82 off just 40 deliveries, hitting 8 fours and 3 sixes. Opener Finn Allen provided a quick start with a 24-ball 45, while Bevon Jacobs chipped in with 31 runs.
Expensive Outing for Indian Bowlers
Indian bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs on a high-scoring ground. Arshdeep Singh (1/45), Mayank Yadav (1/40), and Axar Patel (1/51) picked up one wicket each. Returning pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar went wicketless, conceding 49 runs in his spell.
Image: AI-generated illustration.
