Sanju Samson and Naman Dhir starred as India chased down 226 to defeat New Zealand by four wickets in the opening T20I at Hagley Oval on Thursday, registering their highest successful run chase in the format.
Samson smashed 67 off just 33 balls, hitting eight fours and four sixes, while Dhir remained unbeaten on 42 from 15 deliveries to guide India home in 19.4 overs.
The victory gave India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, with the second T20I scheduled in Christchurch on Saturday. Earlier, Glenn Phillips powered New Zealand to 225/4 with an unbeaten 82 off 40 balls.
India responded aggressively, racing to 94/1 during the powerplay. However, Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell struck crucial blows as India slipped to 122/4. Axar Patel contributed 24 off 14 balls, while captain Shreyas Iyer scored 42 from 28 deliveries.
With eight runs required in the final over, Dhir struck a boundary and a six off Matt Henry to seal the thrilling victory. New Zealand struggled with wayward bowling and costly extras, allowing India to complete a memorable chase.