Sanju Samson’s aggressive batting propelled India to a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in a Twenty20 International (T20I) match in Christchurch on Thursday, setting a new record for the highest successful chase by India in the format. India successfully chased down a target of 226 runs, surpassing their previous best chase of 211 runs against Sri Lanka in 2009. The win gives India a 1-0 lead in the ongoing five-match series.

Samson opened the innings with Abhishek Sharma, and the pair put on a commanding 93 runs during the powerplay, striking quickly against New Zealand’s well-regarded seam attack. Samson scored 67 runs off 33 balls, playing a key role in establishing the fast start which he described as critical to India’s success. “Matches can be finished in the first half,” he said, reflecting on the 90-plus runs scored in the initial six overs.

After Samson was dismissed—chopping onto his stumps off Black Caps captain Mitchell Santner’s bowling—India’s captain Shreyas Iyer took charge, scoring 42 runs from 28 balls to keep the chase on track. Naman Dhir then anchored the finishing stages with 42 runs off 15 balls, guiding India past the target.

New Zealand elected to bat first, aiming to capitalize on favorable bowling conditions at Hagley Oval during the evening. Openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert started briskly, reaching 65 runs for the loss of one wicket by the end of the powerplay. Allen made 45 runs from 24 balls but was dismissed by Axar Patel in the eighth over while attempting an aggressive shot.

Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell continued the innings with strong performances. Phillips was particularly impressive, finishing unbeaten with 82 runs, including sharp cuts and powerful strokes that pressured India’s fielders. Mitchell contributed 28 runs before being caught off Arshdeep Singh. Bevon Jacobs added a quick 31 runs from 16 balls, highlighted by a six that cleared the ground.

New Zealand spinners Santner and Michael Bracewell were effective in the middle overs, combining to take four wickets and restricting run flow during a critical phase of the match.

India’s decision to bowl first was influenced by the expectation of dew favoring the chasing team in the evening conditions. The second game of the series is also scheduled to take place in Christchurch on Saturday.