India delivered a commanding performance to defeat New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20I of the series. Playing at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur, India dominated both with the bat and the ball to take a 1–0 lead.
The match was played on Wednesday night, with New Zealand winning the toss and opting to bowl. What followed was a high-scoring contest where India’s aggressive intent proved too much for the visitors.
Abhishek Sharma’s Explosive 84 Sets the Platform
The highlight of the match was a sensational knock by Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 84 runs off just 35 balls. Batting at the top of the order, Abhishek attacked from the start, hitting 5 fours and 8 sixes and scoring at a strike rate of 240.
India raced to 68 runs in the powerplay and reached 117/2 after 10 overs, the highest 10-over score recorded in T20 matches at Nagpur. Abhishek’s partnership with Suryakumar Yadav completely shifted the momentum in India’s favour.
Useful contributions also came from Hardik Pandya (25) and a brilliant finishing act by Rinku Singh, who remained unbeaten on 44 off 20 balls. India eventually posted a massive 238/7 in 20 overs, one of their highest T20I totals against New Zealand.
India Batting Overview
| Player | Runs (Balls) |
|---|---|
| Abhishek Sharma | 84 (35) |
| Suryakumar Yadav | 32 (22) |
| Hardik Pandya | 25 (16) |
| Rinku Singh | 44* (20) |
| Team Total | 238/7 (20 overs) |
New Zealand’s Chase Never Settles
Chasing 239, New Zealand showed some fight but never truly threatened the target. Glenn Phillips played a strong counter-attacking innings of 78 off 40 balls, while Mark Chapman added 39 runs.
However, the required run rate kept climbing, and regular wickets prevented New Zealand from building sustained momentum. They finished at 190/7 in 20 overs, falling well short of the target.
Bowlers Finish the Job for India
India’s bowlers backed up the batting effort with timely breakthroughs. Varun Chakaravarthy picked up two key wickets in the middle overs, while Shivam Dube produced a decisive late spell, taking two wickets in one over to end any remaining hopes for New Zealand.
Despite some missed chances in the field, India stayed in control and closed out the match clinically.
Match Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | 1st T20I |
| Venue | Nagpur |
| India Score | 238/7 |
| New Zealand Score | 190/7 |
| Result | India won by 48 runs |
| Series Status | India lead 1–0 |
What This Win Means Going Forward
This victory stands out as India’s biggest T20 win at Nagpur and one of their largest margins against New Zealand in the format. The match underlined India’s batting depth, fearless approach, and growing confidence ahead of upcoming T20 challenges.
With the series opener wrapped up in emphatic fashion, India will look to carry this momentum forward, while New Zealand will need quick answers to counter India’s aggressive style in the matches ahead.
FAQs
Q1. Who was the Player of the Match in IND vs NZ 1st T20I?
Abhishek Sharma was the standout performer with a blistering 84.
Q2. How many runs did India score in the match?
India scored 238 runs for 7 wickets in 20 overs.
Q3. Who top-scored for New Zealand?
Glenn Phillips top-scored with 78 runs.
Q4. What is the current status of the T20I series?
India lead the series 1–0 after winning the first match.
Q5. Where was the match played?
The match was played at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur.
