India began the five-match T20I series against New Zealand with a four-wicket victory in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22), taking a 1-0 lead. Sanju Samson top-scored with a superb 67, while Naman Dhir’s unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls proved crucial as India chased down the 226-run target with four wickets remaining. Samson and Abhishek Sharma gave India a flying start with an aggressive approach, as Samson brought up his half-century off just 23 balls before Sharma was dismissed by Michael Bracewell for a quickfire 29 off 12 deliveries.&nbsp;India finished the powerplay at 94/1 but suffered a mini-collapse after Samson was dismissed by Mitchell Santner for 67 off 33 balls. Tilak Varma (6) and Ishan Kishan (1) also fell cheaply, putting India under pressure.&nbsp;Axar Patel scored 24, while captain Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with a 42 off 28 balls. However, Iyer’s dismissal in the 19th over left India needing a strong finish.&nbsp;Dhir stepped up at the crucial moment, smashing five fours and two sixes and guided India towards the target and sealed the win with a mighty six in the final over, with two balls remaining.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-new-zealand-run-riot-as-indian-bowlers-set-unwanted-t20i-record-1792664851536">IND vs NZ: New Zealand run riot as Indian bowlers set unwanted T20I record</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Glenn Phillips’ unbeaten 82 off 40 balls powered New Zealand to 225/4, their highest total in home T20Is. Finn Allen provided an explosive start with 45 off 24 balls, while Tim Seifert scored 24 off 17 deliveries.&nbsp;Allen and Seifert attacked the Indian bowlers during the powerplay, helping New Zealand reach 65/1 in six overs. Allen was dismissed by Axar Patel, while Daryl Mitchell added 28 off 19 balls before falling to Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;Also Read&nbsp;- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-pacer-megan-schutt-faces-two-match-ban-over-medication-breach-1792661715017">Australian pacer Megan Schutt faces two-match ban over medication breach</a>&nbsp;Phillips then took charge, building a crucial partnership with Bevon Jacobs, who scored 31 off 16 balls and the pair added 73 runs before Jacobs was run out.&nbsp;Phillips continued his attacking intent, hitting eight fours and three sixes to remain unbeaten on 82. Michael Bracewell scored seven not out as New Zealand finished strongly at 225/4.&nbsp;&nbsp;The second T20I of the five-match series will also be held at Hagley Oval on Saturday (Oct 24), with the hosts looking to level the series.

Sanju Samson’s blistering 67, along with crucial cameos from Naman Dhir and Shreyas Iyer, powered India to a record chase of 226 against New Zealand in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22), giving them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

India began the five-match T20I series against New Zealand with a four-wicket victory in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22), taking a 1-0 lead. Sanju Samson top-scored with a superb 67, while Naman Dhir’s unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls proved crucial as India chased down the 226-run target with four wickets remaining. Samson and Abhishek Sharma gave India a flying start with an aggressive approach, as Samson brought up his half-century off just 23 balls before Sharma was dismissed by Michael Bracewell for a quickfire 29 off 12 deliveries. India finished the powerplay at 94/1 but suffered a mini-collapse after Samson was dismissed by Mitchell Santner for 67 off 33 balls. Tilak Varma (6) and Ishan Kishan (1) also fell cheaply, putting India under pressure. Axar Patel scored 24, while captain Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with a 42 off 28 balls. However, Iyer’s dismissal in the 19th over left India needing a strong finish. Dhir stepped up at the crucial moment, smashing five fours and two sixes and guided India towards the target and sealed the win with a mighty six in the final over, with two balls remaining. Also Read - IND vs NZ: New Zealand run riot as Indian bowlers set unwanted T20I record Earlier, Glenn Phillips’ unbeaten 82 off 40 balls powered New Zealand to 225/4, their highest total in home T20Is. Finn Allen provided an explosive start with 45 off 24 balls, while Tim Seifert scored 24 off 17 deliveries. Allen and Seifert attacked the Indian bowlers during the powerplay, helping New Zealand reach 65/1 in six overs. Allen was dismissed by Axar Patel, while Daryl Mitchell added 28 off 19 balls before falling to Arshdeep Singh. Also Read - Australian pacer Megan Schutt faces two-match ban over medication breach Phillips then took charge, building a crucial partnership with Bevon Jacobs, who scored 31 off 16 balls and the pair added 73 runs before Jacobs was run out. Phillips continued his attacking intent, hitting eight fours and three sixes to remain unbeaten on 82. Michael Bracewell scored seven not out as New Zealand finished strongly at 225/4. The second T20I of the five-match series will also be held at Hagley Oval on Saturday (Oct 24), with the hosts looking to level the series.

Sanju Samson’s blistering 67, along with crucial cameos from Naman Dhir and Shreyas Iyer, powered India to a record chase of 226 against New Zealand in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22), giving them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Samson, Dhir shine as India beat New Zealand by four wickets

For the first time in men’s T20I cricket, five Indian bowlers conceded 40 or more runs in an innings as New Zealand posted 225/4 in the first T20I in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22). Finn Allen scored 45 off 24 balls, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 82 off 40 deliveries to help the hosts dominate India’s bowling attack. Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded 49 runs in four overs, while Arshdeep Singh gave away 45, Mayank Yadav 40, Axar Patel 51 and Nitish Reddy 40.&nbsp;New Zealand’s total was their joint-highest against India in T20Is and their highest score at home against the visitors. With Jasprit Bumrah missing from the squad, India’s bowling attack struggled to control the scoring despite some early swing.&nbsp;New Zealand’s openers handled the movement well before attacking the Indian bowlers, as Tim Seifert scored 24 off 17 balls, while Allen took charge during the powerplay.&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar, playing his first international match in nearly four years, started with a decent first over, however, Seifert hit him for two fours and a six over long-on in his next over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-pacer-megan-schutt-faces-two-match-ban-over-medication-breach-1792661715017">Australian pacer Megan Schutt faces two-match ban over medication breach</a>&nbsp;Allen then attacked Arshdeep in the following over, which cost India 17 runs and gave New Zealand an early advantage. The hosts regularly found boundaries on the off-side.&nbsp;Mayank Yadav was introduced during the powerplay and provided India with a breakthrough when Seifert was caught behind off the last ball of the fifth over.&nbsp;Axar Patel conceded two sixes in the final over of the powerplay, with Finn Allen hitting one over long-off before Daryl Mitchell stepped out to clear the long-on boundary. New Zealand finished the powerplay at 65/1 after six overs.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-rohit-and-kohli-play-odi-world-cup-2027-bcci-president-manhas-says-board-not-in-a-position-to-comment-1792660012314">Will Rohit, Kohli play ODI WC 2027? BCCI prez Manhas says 'depends on selectors'</a>&nbsp;Arshdeep later dismissed Mitchell, but Bhuvneshwar continued to struggle, conceding 14 runs in his third over and another 14 in his final over to finish with figures of 0/49.&nbsp;Phillips remained unbeaten and ended the innings with a switch hit over cover. Bevon Jacobs also played an important role, scoring 31 off 16 balls, including a six off the first ball he faced against Arshdeep.&nbsp;New Zealand added 67 runs in the final five overs to move past the 200-run mark and post a challenging total for India.

India recorded an unwanted milestone in T20I cricket against New Zealand, with all five bowlers giving away 40 or more runs for the first time in the team’s history.

For the first time in men’s T20I cricket, five Indian bowlers conceded 40 or more runs in an innings as New Zealand posted 225/4 in the first T20I in Christchurch on Thursday (Oct 22). Finn Allen scored 45 off 24 balls, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 82 off 40 deliveries to help the hosts dominate India’s bowling attack. Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded 49 runs in four overs, while Arshdeep Singh gave away 45, Mayank Yadav 40, Axar Patel 51 and Nitish Reddy 40. New Zealand’s total was their joint-highest against India in T20Is and their highest score at home against the visitors. With Jasprit Bumrah missing from the squad, India’s bowling attack struggled to control the scoring despite some early swing. New Zealand’s openers handled the movement well before attacking the Indian bowlers, as Tim Seifert scored 24 off 17 balls, while Allen took charge during the powerplay. Bhuvneshwar, playing his first international match in nearly four years, started with a decent first over, however, Seifert hit him for two fours and a six over long-on in his next over. Also Read - Australian pacer Megan Schutt faces two-match ban over medication breach Allen then attacked Arshdeep in the following over, which cost India 17 runs and gave New Zealand an early advantage. The hosts regularly found boundaries on the off-side. Mayank Yadav was introduced during the powerplay and provided India with a breakthrough when Seifert was caught behind off the last ball of the fifth over. Axar Patel conceded two sixes in the final over of the powerplay, with Finn Allen hitting one over long-off before Daryl Mitchell stepped out to clear the long-on boundary. New Zealand finished the powerplay at 65/1 after six overs. Also Read - Will Rohit, Kohli play ODI WC 2027? BCCI prez Manhas says 'depends on selectors' Arshdeep later dismissed Mitchell, but Bhuvneshwar continued to struggle, conceding 14 runs in his third over and another 14 in his final over to finish with figures of 0/49. Phillips remained unbeaten and ended the innings with a switch hit over cover. Bevon Jacobs also played an important role, scoring 31 off 16 balls, including a six off the first ball he faced against Arshdeep. New Zealand added 67 runs in the final five overs to move past the 200-run mark and post a challenging total for India.

India recorded an unwanted milestone in T20I cricket against New Zealand, with all five bowlers giving away 40 or more runs for the first time in the team’s history.

IND vs NZ: New Zealand run riot as Indian bowlers set unwanted T20I record

India will play New Zealand in the first of five T20Is on Thursday (Oct 22) in Christchurch, just days after they played West Indies in the T20I series decider in Bengaluru. Jetlagged and running around since defending their Asian Games gold in Japan, the Men in Blue have now reached the other end of the globe to feature in the marquee series. Shreyas Iyer and his top-notch Indian Team will aim to repeat the past heroics, but have a few selection headaches before the action gets underway.<h2>Match Preview</h2>India’s full tour of New Zealand will get underway with the five-match T20I series before the action moves to 50-over cricket and ends with the WTC-bound two Tests. &nbsp;Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was tipped to be in action during the series, but Iyer indicated that India will likely continue with their regular T20I openers, Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. The batting order is unlikely to see major changes, with Ishan Kishan, Iyer and Tilak Varma comprising the middle order.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-coe-cautious-hardik-pandya-fitness-comeback-timeline-1792599701302">BCCI’s CoE cautious over Hardik Pandya’s fitness, sets expected comeback timeline</a> &nbsp;Shivam Dube, Axar Patel and either Naman Dhir or Nitish Kumar Reddy will likely take up the finisher's role. &nbsp;With no Jasprit Bumrah around, ace seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar will lead the pace attack, with Arshdeep Singh sharing the new ball with him. With Varun Chakravarthy recalled for the T20Is, Iyer would have to pick between him and Kuldeep Yadav for the series opener. &nbsp;On the other hand, New Zealand have racked up match winners in their squad for the India T20Is. Starting at the top, Finn Allen will pair up with fellow T20 specialist Tim Seifert, with Devon Conway likely to bat at three. Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell will comprise the middle order, before captain Mitchell Santner bridges the gap between the batters and the tailenders.&nbsp; &nbsp;The hosts are likely to play four quicks, with lanky seamer Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, bowling all-rounder Nathan Smith and Lockie Ferguson.&nbsp;<h3>Predicted Playing XIs of both teams –</h3>India – Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh &nbsp;New Zealand - Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson

India face New Zealand in the 1st T20I in Christchurch. Check the preview, team news, selection dilemmas, and predicted playing XIs for Shreyas Iyer's side.

India will play New Zealand in the first of five T20Is on Thursday (Oct 22) in Christchurch, just days after they played West Indies in the T20I series decider in Bengaluru. Jetlagged and running around since defending their Asian Games gold in Japan, the Men in Blue have now reached the other end of the globe to feature in the marquee series. Shreyas Iyer and his top-notch Indian Team will aim to repeat the past heroics, but have a few selection headaches before the action gets underway. Match Preview India’s full tour of New Zealand will get underway with the five-match T20I series before the action moves to 50-over cricket and ends with the WTC-bound two Tests. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was tipped to be in action during the series, but Iyer indicated that India will likely continue with their regular T20I openers, Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. The batting order is unlikely to see major changes, with Ishan Kishan, Iyer and Tilak Varma comprising the middle order. Also read| BCCI’s CoE cautious over Hardik Pandya’s fitness, sets expected comeback timeline Shivam Dube, Axar Patel and either Naman Dhir or Nitish Kumar Reddy will likely take up the finisher's role. With no Jasprit Bumrah around, ace seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar will lead the pace attack, with Arshdeep Singh sharing the new ball with him. With Varun Chakravarthy recalled for the T20Is, Iyer would have to pick between him and Kuldeep Yadav for the series opener. On the other hand, New Zealand have racked up match winners in their squad for the India T20Is. Starting at the top, Finn Allen will pair up with fellow T20 specialist Tim Seifert, with Devon Conway likely to bat at three. Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell will comprise the middle order, before captain Mitchell Santner bridges the gap between the batters and the tailenders. The hosts are likely to play four quicks, with lanky seamer Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, bowling all-rounder Nathan Smith and Lockie Ferguson. Predicted Playing XIs of both teams – India – Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh New Zealand - Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson

India face New Zealand in the 1st T20I in Christchurch. Check the preview, team news, selection dilemmas, and predicted playing XIs for Shreyas Iyer's side.

IND vs NZ 1st T20I Preview: Selection dilemmas and short prep test India ahead of marquee series

India opener Abhishek Sharma continued his destructive form but fell just short of his third T20I hundred, scoring a match-winning 84 against New Zealand in the first T20I on Wednesday (Jan 21). During his knock, Abhishek hit eight huge sixes and five fours and helped his team to win the match by 48 runs. He also reached the 5,000 career runs in T20s. After being named Player of the Match at the post-match presentation, Abhishek spoke about his batting approach, saying he prefers to keep his game simple and focuses on practicing a few shots repeatedly so he can execute them confidently in matches&nbsp;“I feel if you watch videos or if you watch your batting videos as well, you get an idea that where the ball is gonna, you know, planning to bowl you or maybe where I’m gonna play my shots. But it’s always about me backing my shots because I don’t have a lot of shots. It’s just a few shots I’m gonna practice a lot about that and I’ll just execute it,” said Abhishek. &nbsp;Abhishek further said that he does not see his aggressive six-hitting style as a high-risk one and enjoys batting at the top, especially in the first six overs, which is something he has practiced a lot.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-15-babar-azam-leaves-sydney-sixers-to-link-up-with-pakistan-team-for-camp-1769067745572">Babar Azam cuts short BBL 15 tenure with Sixers to link up with Pakistan for team camp</a>&nbsp;“I don’t feel it’s a high risk, but for me, it’s, I feel this is my, I wouldn’t say it’s my comfort zone, but it’s like I’ve always wanted to be in first because they want to give you the first six overs and that’s what I’ve been practicing before the nets as well. And that was always in my mind if I do because if you see all the bowlers, all the main bowlers and you know, from all the teams, they bowl first, second, three overs probably. And if I get scores in the first three, four overs, then, you know, we have always got the upper hand,” he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;In the first T20I, apart from Abhishek, Rinku Singh also made a strong comeback and scored an unbeaten 44 off 20 balls, while Suryakumar Yadav made 32 off 22 and Hardik Pandya contributed 25 off 16. Their combine efforts helped India to post a big total of 238/7.&nbsp;Chasing 239, New Zealand managed to score only 190/7 in 20 overs. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 78 off 40 balls, while Mark Chapman contributed 39. For India, Varun Chakaravarthy and Shivam Dube took two wickets each, while Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel picked up one wicket apiece.&nbsp;

During his 84-run knock, Abhishek hit eight huge sixes and five fours, helping his team win the match by 48 runs. He was also named Player of the Match for his brilliant batting performance.

India opener Abhishek Sharma continued his destructive form but fell just short of his third T20I hundred, scoring a match-winning 84 against New Zealand in the first T20I on Wednesday (Jan 21). During his knock, Abhishek hit eight huge sixes and five fours and helped his team to win the match by 48 runs. He also reached the 5,000 career runs in T20s. After being named Player of the Match at the post-match presentation, Abhishek spoke about his batting approach, saying he prefers to keep his game simple and focuses on practicing a few shots repeatedly so he can execute them confidently in matches “I feel if you watch videos or if you watch your batting videos as well, you get an idea that where the ball is gonna, you know, planning to bowl you or maybe where I’m gonna play my shots. But it’s always about me backing my shots because I don’t have a lot of shots. It’s just a few shots I’m gonna practice a lot about that and I’ll just execute it,” said Abhishek. Abhishek further said that he does not see his aggressive six-hitting style as a high-risk one and enjoys batting at the top, especially in the first six overs, which is something he has practiced a lot. Also Read - Babar Azam cuts short BBL 15 tenure with Sixers to link up with Pakistan for team camp “I don’t feel it’s a high risk, but for me, it’s, I feel this is my, I wouldn’t say it’s my comfort zone, but it’s like I’ve always wanted to be in first because they want to give you the first six overs and that’s what I’ve been practicing before the nets as well. And that was always in my mind if I do because if you see all the bowlers, all the main bowlers and you know, from all the teams, they bowl first, second, three overs probably. And if I get scores in the first three, four overs, then, you know, we have always got the upper hand,” he added. In the first T20I, apart from Abhishek, Rinku Singh also made a strong comeback and scored an unbeaten 44 off 20 balls, while Suryakumar Yadav made 32 off 22 and Hardik Pandya contributed 25 off 16. Their combine efforts helped India to post a big total of 238/7. Chasing 239, New Zealand managed to score only 190/7 in 20 overs. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 78 off 40 balls, while Mark Chapman contributed 39. For India, Varun Chakaravarthy and Shivam Dube took two wickets each, while Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel picked up one wicket apiece.

During his 84-run knock, Abhishek hit eight huge sixes and five fours, helping his team win the match by 48 runs. He was also named Player of the Match for his brilliant batting performance.

'I don’t feel it’s high risk': Abhishek Sharma on his six-hitting approach in T20Is

In the first T20I between India and New Zealand at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, middle-order batter Rinku Singh on Wednesday ( Jan 21) made a strong return to international cricket. He scored an unbeaten 44 off just 20 balls, hitting four fours and three huge sixes. Before this match, Rinku last played a T20I against Australia in November, but that game was washed out due to rain. Prior to that, he featured against England in February last year, where he managed to score only nine runs.&nbsp;In today's match, Rinku played a crucial role in the final over of India’s innings, smashing Daryl Mitchell for 21 runs. Mitchell started the over with a length ball, which Rinku stepped out and struck straight down the ground for a six. Mitchell then tried a slower delivery, but Rinku powered it over mid-wicket into the stands for another six. He went on to hit two more boundaries as India collected 21 runs from the last over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-skipper-rohit-sharma-says-quite-amazing-on-missing-t20-world-cup-2026-1769007705638">Ex- India skipper Rohit Sharma says 'quite amazing' on missing T20 World Cup 26</a>&nbsp;Alongside Rinku, Abhishek Sharma continued his excellent form with a brilliant 84 off 35 balls, including eight sixes and five fours. Captain Suryakumar Yadav added 32 off 22 balls, while Hardik Pandya contributed 25 off 16 balls. Overall, India’s batting looked strong, which is a positive sign for the team management with the World Cup just a month away.<h2>IND vs NZ, 1st T20I</h2>India began their 2026 T20I season with a strong win, defeating New Zealand by 48 runs in the first match of the five-game series on Wednesday (Jan 21). Abhishek Sharma stole the spotlight with a fine knock of 84 runs and helped his team take a 1-0 lead in the series. The victory was a perfect start for India as they head into their final series before the T20 World Cup, which will begin on February 7 on home soil.

India began their 2026 T20I season with a strong win, defeating New Zealand by 48 runs in the first match of the five-game series on Wednesday (Jan 21).

In the first T20I between India and New Zealand at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, middle-order batter Rinku Singh on Wednesday ( Jan 21) made a strong return to international cricket. He scored an unbeaten 44 off just 20 balls, hitting four fours and three huge sixes. Before this match, Rinku last played a T20I against Australia in November, but that game was washed out due to rain. Prior to that, he featured against England in February last year, where he managed to score only nine runs. In today's match, Rinku played a crucial role in the final over of India’s innings, smashing Daryl Mitchell for 21 runs. Mitchell started the over with a length ball, which Rinku stepped out and struck straight down the ground for a six. Mitchell then tried a slower delivery, but Rinku powered it over mid-wicket into the stands for another six. He went on to hit two more boundaries as India collected 21 runs from the last over. Also Read - Ex- India skipper Rohit Sharma says 'quite amazing' on missing T20 World Cup 26 Alongside Rinku, Abhishek Sharma continued his excellent form with a brilliant 84 off 35 balls, including eight sixes and five fours. Captain Suryakumar Yadav added 32 off 22 balls, while Hardik Pandya contributed 25 off 16 balls. Overall, India’s batting looked strong, which is a positive sign for the team management with the World Cup just a month away. IND vs NZ, 1st T20I India began their 2026 T20I season with a strong win, defeating New Zealand by 48 runs in the first match of the five-game series on Wednesday (Jan 21). Abhishek Sharma stole the spotlight with a fine knock of 84 runs and helped his team take a 1-0 lead in the series. The victory was a perfect start for India as they head into their final series before the T20 World Cup, which will begin on February 7 on home soil.

India began their 2026 T20I season with a strong win, defeating New Zealand by 48 runs in the first match of the five-game series on Wednesday (Jan 21).

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Rinku Singh makes strong comeback, smashes 21 runs in an over

Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India's T20I team with a four on the first ball he faced. Kishan came to bat in the second over after Sanju Samson was dismissed on a rather soft dismissal. Kishan got a slot ball first up by Kyle Jamieson and samshed it down the ground for a four during the first T20 vs New Zealand on Wednesday (Jan 21) at the VCA stadium in Nagpur. The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.<h2>Kishan has skipper Suryakumar's backing</h2>Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-updated-points-table-and-qualifcation-scenarios-rcb-through-but-what-about-others-1768982858996">WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others</a>Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: “Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play.”<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-made-at-toss-surykumar-joins-exclusive-list-of-indian-players-with-100-or-more-t20i-matches-1769007652499">SKY joins exclusive list of Indian players</a></h2>As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand, he joined an exlusive list of Indian players. This was SKY's 100th T20I match for India - making him only the fourth player to acheive the milestone. Rohit leads the list with 159 appearance for India in T20Is, followed by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya with 125 matches each. Virat and Rohit, however, announced their retirement from the format after India's T20 World Cup title win in 2024 edition. Suryakumar was made India's captain as Rohit's replacement and will now lead India in 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champion. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starts Feb 7 with India taking on the USA.

The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.

Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India's T20I team with a four on the first ball he faced. Kishan came to bat in the second over after Sanju Samson was dismissed on a rather soft dismissal. Kishan got a slot ball first up by Kyle Jamieson and samshed it down the ground for a four during the first T20 vs New Zealand on Wednesday (Jan 21) at the VCA stadium in Nagpur. The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023. Kishan has skipper Suryakumar's backing Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. Also Read - WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: “Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play.” SKY joins exclusive list of Indian players As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand, he joined an exlusive list of Indian players. This was SKY's 100th T20I match for India - making him only the fourth player to acheive the milestone. Rohit leads the list with 159 appearance for India in T20Is, followed by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya with 125 matches each. Virat and Rohit, however, announced their retirement from the format after India's T20 World Cup title win in 2024 edition. Suryakumar was made India's captain as Rohit's replacement and will now lead India in 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champion. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starts Feb 7 with India taking on the USA.

The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: 'Starts with 4, out four balls later': Kishan fails in first international match for India since November 2023

In the first T20I of the five-match series between India and New Zealand at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Wednesday (Jan 21) became the fourth Indian cricketer to play 100 T20I matches. With this milestone, Yadav joined an elite list comprising Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit leads the chart with 159 appearances, while Kohli and Pandya have played 125 T20Is each.&nbsp;The Mumbai batter made his T20I debut in March 2021 against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In 100 matches so far, he has amassed 2,820 runs at an average of 35.25 and an impressive strike rate of 163.00. The 35-year-old is currently the third-highest run-scorer for India in the shortest format.&nbsp;<h2>Most T20I matches for India</h2><ul><li>Rohit Sharma - 159 matches</li><li>Virat Kohli - 125 matches</li><li>Hardik Pandya - 125* matches</li><li>Suryakumar Yadav - 100* matches</li><li>MS Dhoni - 98 matches</li></ul>Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-upholds-bangladesh-s-demands-reassures-no-changes-in-t20-world-cup-schedule-1769003244672">ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule</a><h2>Suryakumar Yadav’s T20I record against New Zealand</h2>Suryakumar has played nine T20I matches against New Zealand and has scored 316* runs, including one century and one half-century. His average against New Zealand in T20Is is an impressive 45.14.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-updated-points-table-and-qualifcation-scenarios-rcb-through-but-what-about-others-1768982858996">WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others</a><h2>IND vs NZ, 1st ODI match update</h2>At the time of writing, India were 68 for two at the end of the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav were at the crease. India had a slow start as opener Sanju Samson was out for 10 runs. Ishan Kishan also failed to make an impact and was dismissed for eight runs by Jacob Duffy. For New Zealand, Jacob Duffy (1/16) and Kyle Jamieson (1/30) picked up one wicket each.&nbsp;With eight wickets remaining, India will aim to build a strong total. On the other hand, New Zealand will try to restrict India to a low score. It will be interesting to see how the New Zealand bowlers handle India’s powerful batting lineup.

With this milestone, Suryakumar joined the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit has featured in 159 T20Is, while Kohli and Hardik have both played 125 matches. 

In the first T20I of the five-match series between India and New Zealand at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Wednesday (Jan 21) became the fourth Indian cricketer to play 100 T20I matches. With this milestone, Yadav joined an elite list comprising Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit leads the chart with 159 appearances, while Kohli and Pandya have played 125 T20Is each. The Mumbai batter made his T20I debut in March 2021 against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In 100 matches so far, he has amassed 2,820 runs at an average of 35.25 and an impressive strike rate of 163.00. The 35-year-old is currently the third-highest run-scorer for India in the shortest format. Most T20I matches for India Rohit Sharma - 159 matches Virat Kohli - 125 matches Hardik Pandya - 125* matches Suryakumar Yadav - 100* matches MS Dhoni - 98 matches Also Read - ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule Suryakumar Yadav’s T20I record against New Zealand Suryakumar has played nine T20I matches against New Zealand and has scored 316* runs, including one century and one half-century. His average against New Zealand in T20Is is an impressive 45.14. Also Read - WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others IND vs NZ, 1st ODI match update At the time of writing, India were 68 for two at the end of the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav were at the crease. India had a slow start as opener Sanju Samson was out for 10 runs. Ishan Kishan also failed to make an impact and was dismissed for eight runs by Jacob Duffy. For New Zealand, Jacob Duffy (1/16) and Kyle Jamieson (1/30) picked up one wicket each. With eight wickets remaining, India will aim to build a strong total. On the other hand, New Zealand will try to restrict India to a low score. It will be interesting to see how the New Zealand bowlers handle India’s powerful batting lineup.

With this milestone, Suryakumar joined the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit has featured in 159 T20Is, while Kohli and Hardik have both played 125 matches.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Suryakumar joins Rohit, Virat in elite list as fourth Indian to achieve THIS milestone

India and New Zealand will square off in the first of the five T20Is starting on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. Since conceding the home ODI series to the Kiwis for the first time, the hosts are more motivated than ever to compensate for that loss. Although both teams have their best players back for this marquee series, Team India could have some headaches surrounding team selection. Check out what Team India’s XI for the opener could look like.<h3>No Shreyas Iyer for opener?</h3>Returning to the T20I side, although as an injury replacement for Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer might have to wait a tad extra for his chance, as T20I captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-t20i-deserves-to-play-skipper-suryakumar-confirms-ishan-kishan-at-number-3-1768912763603">Suryakumar Yadav confirmed in-form Ishan Kishan at number three for the first game</a>. Coming off a brilliant white-ball domestic run, the left-handed batter was a surprise inclusion to the side for the New Zealand T20Is and the World Cup, offering his captain and the selectors more options to pick from. &nbsp;"Ishan will play third [No. 3]. Because [he's] in our World Cup team, we have picked him first. So, it's his responsibility, and he has to play. He has been doing well in domestic cricket. He hasn't played for the Indian team for 1-1.5 years. We have picked him in the World Cup team, and he deserves to play,” India’s T20I captain SKY said of Kishan’s batting position.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🗣️🗣️ Ishan Kishan will play at no.3 Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> on the inclusion of <a href="https://twitter.com/ishankishan51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ishankishan51</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>&#39;s Playing XI in the 1⃣st T20I against New Zealand. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/sZ3AB7RKVH">pic.twitter.com/sZ3AB7RKVH</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/2013611255177847020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kishan's rich vein of form would benefit India, besides providing them with a back-up gloveman option (to Sanju Samson). The flashy batter hit the right notes during the recently concluded SMAT for Jharkhand, smashing 517 runs in 10 matches, including two hundreds and as many fifties; he even whacked a match-winning hundred in the finale, helping his team lift the trophy for the first time. Ishan's last appearance for India, however, came more than two years ago (Nov 2023) during the home T20I series against Australia. &nbsp;Barring Kishan’s inclusion, India’s XI could look similar to what they fielded against South Africa late last year, with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson opening the innings and captain SKY walking out at number four. The hosts could have two all-rounders in Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya batting at five and six, respectively, while also recalling T20 specialist Rinku Singh at number seven.&nbsp; &nbsp;Vice-captain Axar Patel makes a perfect number eight for India, with the defending world champions contemplating picking between Kuldeep Yadav and in-form Varun Chakarvarthy as the specialist spinner. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh would likely be the two pacers for the series opener.<h3>Team India’s predicted XI for 1st T20I against NZ –</h3>Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel/Kuldeep Yadav, Varun CV, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh

Both India and New Zealand would have selection headaches heading into the series opener in Nagpur.

India and New Zealand will square off in the first of the five T20Is starting on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. Since conceding the home ODI series to the Kiwis for the first time, the hosts are more motivated than ever to compensate for that loss. Although both teams have their best players back for this marquee series, Team India could have some headaches surrounding team selection. Check out what Team India’s XI for the opener could look like. No Shreyas Iyer for opener? Returning to the T20I side, although as an injury replacement for Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer might have to wait a tad extra for his chance, as T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed in-form Ishan Kishan at number three for the first game. Coming off a brilliant white-ball domestic run, the left-handed batter was a surprise inclusion to the side for the New Zealand T20Is and the World Cup, offering his captain and the selectors more options to pick from. "Ishan will play third [No. 3]. Because [he's] in our World Cup team, we have picked him first. So, it's his responsibility, and he has to play. He has been doing well in domestic cricket. He hasn't played for the Indian team for 1-1.5 years. We have picked him in the World Cup team, and he deserves to play,” India’s T20I captain SKY said of Kishan’s batting position.

Both India and New Zealand would have selection headaches heading into the series opener in Nagpur.

IND vs NZ 1st T20I: No Iyer? Kishan at 3. Check India’s predicted playing XI

Meet the top five Indian batters with the most sixes against New Zealand in T20Is. From Rohit Sharma’s power to Suryakumar Yadav’s flair, these players changed games with big hits and fearless batting.


Meet the top five Indian batters with the most sixes against New Zealand in T20Is. From Rohit Sharma’s power to Suryakumar Yadav’s flair, these players changed games with big hits and fearless batting.

Meet 5 Indian batters with most T20I sixes against New Zealand

India and New Zealand will square off in five T20Is starting on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. After the three-match ODI series, which the Kiwis won, completing their maiden yet historic bilateral series win over India in India (2-1), the action moves to the shortest format, with two teams using this as the best chance to prepare for next month’s T20 World Cup. Here are all the streaming details of the 1st T20I between India and New Zealand in Nagpur.&nbsp;India and New Zealand have picked their best squads for the five-match T20Is, with India’s being the same as for the 20-team tournament starting February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. The only change for the New Zealand T20Is is the absence of the middle-order batter Tilak Varma, who continues to recover from abdominal surgery. The BCCI added Shreyas Iyer to the squad as his cover. &nbsp;New Zealand, on the other hand, has its hands full with seasoned names and match-winners, most of whom were on rest or recovering from respective injuries during the concluded ODI series against India. Among those back into the New Zealand T20I team are seamers Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson and Jacob Duffy, who was the Kiwis’ best bowler across formats last year; not to forget their T20I captain Mitchell Santner.&nbsp; &nbsp;All-rounders Rachin Ravindra and Jimmy Neesham are also back. New Zealand, however, will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-t20i-series-michael-bracewell-doubtful-for-india-t20is-replacement-named-1768892073398">miss key player Michael Bracewell for the India T20Is</a>, with Kristian Clarke added for the first three T20Is.<h3>India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I - Live streaming details</h3>As the T20I series gets underway, check out the streaming details of the 1st T20I between India and New Zealand. &nbsp;When and where is India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I? &nbsp;The first T20I between India and New Zealand will take place on Wednesday (Jan 21), at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, starting at 7 PM IST. &nbsp;Where to watch India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I live? &nbsp;The Star Sports Network in India will broadcast the first T20I between India and New Zealand. &nbsp;Where to livestream India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I? &nbsp;The fans can watch the live streaming of the first T20I between India and New Zealand on the JioHotstar app and website in India. &nbsp;What time will the toss take place? &nbsp;The toss for the first T20I between India and New Zealand will be held at 6:30 pm IST. &nbsp;India vs New Zealand T20I squads - &nbsp;India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (wk) and Ravi Bishnoi &nbsp;New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi and Kristian Clarke (only for the first three games)

The dress rehearsal series for the T20 World Cup gets underway on Wednesday in Nagpur.

India and New Zealand will square off in five T20Is starting on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. After the three-match ODI series, which the Kiwis won, completing their maiden yet historic bilateral series win over India in India (2-1), the action moves to the shortest format, with two teams using this as the best chance to prepare for next month’s T20 World Cup. Here are all the streaming details of the 1st T20I between India and New Zealand in Nagpur. India and New Zealand have picked their best squads for the five-match T20Is, with India’s being the same as for the 20-team tournament starting February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. The only change for the New Zealand T20Is is the absence of the middle-order batter Tilak Varma, who continues to recover from abdominal surgery. The BCCI added Shreyas Iyer to the squad as his cover. New Zealand, on the other hand, has its hands full with seasoned names and match-winners, most of whom were on rest or recovering from respective injuries during the concluded ODI series against India. Among those back into the New Zealand T20I team are seamers Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson and Jacob Duffy, who was the Kiwis’ best bowler across formats last year; not to forget their T20I captain Mitchell Santner. All-rounders Rachin Ravindra and Jimmy Neesham are also back. New Zealand, however, will miss key player Michael Bracewell for the India T20Is, with Kristian Clarke added for the first three T20Is. India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I - Live streaming details As the T20I series gets underway, check out the streaming details of the 1st T20I between India and New Zealand. When and where is India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I? The first T20I between India and New Zealand will take place on Wednesday (Jan 21), at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, starting at 7 PM IST. Where to watch India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I live? The Star Sports Network in India will broadcast the first T20I between India and New Zealand. Where to livestream India vs New Zealand, 1st T20I? The fans can watch the live streaming of the first T20I between India and New Zealand on the JioHotstar app and website in India. What time will the toss take place? The toss for the first T20I between India and New Zealand will be held at 6:30 pm IST. India vs New Zealand T20I squads - India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (wk) and Ravi Bishnoi New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi and Kristian Clarke (only for the first three games)

The dress rehearsal series for the T20 World Cup gets underway on Wednesday in Nagpur.

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?

ind-vs-nz-1st-t20i

Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i, News on Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i, stories on Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i, articles on Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i, Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i stories at Wion, Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i news, Ind Vs Nz, 1st T20i latest news

ind vs-nz-1st-t20i

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Samson, Dhir shine as India beat New Zealand by four wickets

IND vs NZ: New Zealand run riot as Indian bowlers set unwanted T20I record

IND vs NZ 1st T20I: Short prep and key selection dilemmas test India| Preview

'I don’t feel...': Abhishek Sharma on his six-hitting approach in T20Is

IND vs NZ: Rinku Singh makes strong comeback, smashes 21 runs in an over

Kishan fails in first international match for India since November 2023

Suryakumar joins Rohit, Virat in elite list as 4th Indian to achieve THIS feat

IND vs NZ 1st T20I: No Iyer? Kishan at 3. Check India’s predicted playing XI

Meet 5 Indian batters with most T20I sixes against New Zealand

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand