1st T20I, Auckland, January 24, 2020, 12:20 PM
New Zealand
203/5(20.0ov)
India
204/4(19.0ov)
India beat New Zealand by 6 wickets
Best Batsmen
R
B
4S
6S
SR
Best Bowler
O
R
W
Econ
Man of the Match
Shreyas Iyer
Commentry
That's all we have from this high-scoring but one-sided affair. The venue for the second T20I will remain the same. Do join us on Sunday at 1950 local (0650 GMT) for all the action. Until then, it's goodbye and cheers!
Indian skipper, Virat Kohli says that they enjoyed the contest. Tells that they landed just two days ago and played a game like this which is fantastic. Mentions that they needed the crowd support while chasing 200-plus and they were right behind them. States that they never spoke about the jet lag in the team and didn't want to take that as an excuse. Further says that they were focused on what needs to be done on the field. Tells that they are playing well as a side and just wants to keep going. Feels that they bowled well in the middle overs and then in the latter half and adds that it appeared a 230 wicket at one stage but they pulled things back nicely. Reckons that they have to improve their fielding and get used to the dimensions of the ground.
New Zealand's skipper, Kane Williamson says that there are a lot of positives and admits that it was hard to defend on this ground. Mentions about the dew as well but feels India are a class team. States that they needed to pick early wickets which didn't happen and again credits India for playing really well. Shares that the wicket was very good for batting and later on dew also made it easy. Feels that they didn't put India under enough pressure. On his own batting, Kane replies that it's nice to build some partnerships and the boys played their roles really well.
Shreyas Iyer is given the Man of the Match award! Says that it was really amazing to come overseas and win the game and stay not out. Adds that they lost two wickets in succession and concentrated on partnerships. Mentions that they knew the ground is really small and they can make up later on. He enjoyed the crowd support today and is hoping for the same in the remaining games as well.
It was not a day for the bowlers. They failed to exert any pressure and leaked runs at a brisk rate. There was never a moment when India felt the scoreboard pressure. Mitchell Santner was a major disappointment as he went for aplenty but his partner, Ish Sodhi, fared decently to pick two wickets. Earlier in the evening, it was a power-packed batting show by the Black Caps but eventually, they failed to get enough runs to bother the starry Indian batting line-up. Stay tuned for the presentation...
In pursuit, India lost Rohit Sharma cheaply but that didn't deter their confidence. Virat Kohli combined forces with KL Rahul and together they put on a quickfire 99-run stand, off just 51 balls. There was a phase when the visitors lost Rahul and Kohli in a quick succession which gave a sniff to the Black Caps. However, Shreyas Iyer settled down in his role of a finisher and along with Manish Pandey steered India home. Iyer was simply amazing under pressure as he went about his business in a controlled manner and notched up a delightful half century.
A thumping win for India! Just the battleground changed, not the result. They were dominating at home and have just carried that scintillating form abroad. It's a big chase but they scaled it down with one over to spare. That just tells the ease with which they prospered in the run chase.
18.6
6
SIX! Smoked! Shreyas Iyer, you beauty! INDIA WIN BY 6 WICKETS! Southee dishes out a slower full ball around off, Iyer gets across the stumps a bit and clobbers it over mid-wicket for a maximum. The crowd roars. The Indian spectators have outnumbered the Kiwi supporters.
18.5
.
Play and a miss! Southee delivers it on a length outside off, getting it to shape away, Shreyas throws his bat at it but fails to make any connection.
18.4
1
Short in length on off, Pandey plays a controlled pull shot and sends it to deep mid-wicket for a single. 6 needed more!
18.3
1
On the pads and it's turned behind square leg for a run.
18.2
4
FOUR! Shreyas reaches his fifty, off just 26 balls. His second in this format. Just like Rahul, he also continues with his good form. Fuller length ball around off, angling in, Iyer shuffles across and flicks it over square leg for a boundary.
18.1
6
SIX! Clears the short boundary line with ease! Back of a length ball around middle and off, Shreyas camps back and rifles it over long off for a maximum.
In over# 1
1
1
1
0
4
4
Hamish Bennett 36/0(4)
17.6
1
Chases a wide delivery and gets only a run. Could have left it alone. Hamish slips a length ball down the leg side, Shreyas tries to flick and gets some bat on it. Seifert dives across to his left and parries it towards short fine leg. A single is taken. Good comeback from the bowler after conceding two fours at the start.
17.5
1
Shot! But for just a run. Back of a length ball on middle, Pandey clears his front leg and heaves it to deep square leg for a single.
17.4
1
Fuller in length around off, eased down to long on for a run.
17.3
.
Almost edges it behind! Shreyas Iyer makes movement inside the crease to confuse the bowler but Bennett does well to stick to his guns. He delivers it short and in the line of the stumps, Shreyas flays at it and misses.
17.2
4
FOUR! Shreyas is finding the gaps superbly! Bennett once again is on the fuller side around off, Iyer moves across the stumps again and whips it to wide long on. 21 needed off 16 balls!
17.1
4
FOUR! Bennett begins the over from 'round the wicket and serves a full toss on middle, Shreyas shuffles across the stumps and flicks it sweetly to long leg for a boundary.
Hamish Bennett is back for another burst.
In over# 1
1
1
0
1
6
1
Tim Southee 30/0(3)
16.6
1
Brilliant effort from Tickner. Short ball around off, Iyer flays it towards point but Tickner there makes a diving stop to his right. Only a single. 29 needed off the final 18 balls.
16.5
1
Yorker on on middle, drilled to long on for a single.
16.4
.
Slightly short ball on middle, Pandey looks to pull but mistimes it towards long on for a single.
16.3
1
A length ball on middle, Iyer works it towards mid-wicket for a run.
16.2
6
SIX! Slammed! A short ball down the leg side from Southee, Iyer goes on the back foot and tonks it over deep square leg for a biggie! Bowler under pressure now.
16.1
1
Quick single! A full ball around off, Manish hammers it towards mid off and takes off for the run. The fielder there picks the ball and releases the throw at the non-striker's end but misses. Wouldn't have mattered though.
Tim Southee is back on! 2-0-20-0 from him. The hosts would need him to deliver in his final 2 overs.
In over# 1
1
6
1
4
0
2
Ish Sodhi 36/2(4)
15.6
1
Knocks a full ball down to long on for a run. 14 from the over, spoiling Sodhi's spell somewhat. He ends with 4-0-36-2!
15.5
6
SIX! Wow, this one has gone the distance. Pandey shows his full range there. A long hop on middle, Manish swings his bat and dismisses it over mid-wicket for a biggie.
15.4
1
A long hop on middle, pulled to deep square leg for a single.
15.3
4
FOUR! Connects and connects well! Sodhi drags his length short again and delivers it wide outside off. Shreyas doesn't miss out this time and whacks it through backward point.
15.2
.
NOT OUT! Once again the batsman is safely inside the crease. Sodhi serves it short and wide outside off, Iyer strides forward to slap it through the line but misses. The keeper collects the ball and takes the bails off in a flash. He appeals and following that the third umpire is referred. The replays shows that Shreyas did drag his back foot outside the crease but had it back in time.
Shout for a stumping! It has been referred upstairs. Not much excitement shown by Tim Seifert though.
15.1
2
Tossed up ball around middle, Shreyas forces it towards wide long on and collects a couple. These two batsmen are lightning quick between the wickets!
In over# 1
1
1
1
2
1
1
Hamish Bennett 25/0(3)
14.6
1
Another short ball and another pull shot. A single added to the total as the ball travels to deep mid-wicket. 53 needed off the last 5 overs!
14.5
1
A half tracker on middle, it's been pulled to deep mid-wicket for a run.
14.4
1
The batsman has played it to the point region. They pick up a single.
14.3
2
Turns a length delivery towards wide mid on and scampers back for the second run. Excellent running!
14.2
1
Run out appeal has been referred upstairs! Short in length outside off, Pandey plays it down with an angled bat to point and Munro has an unnecessary shy at the bowler's end and finds the timber. It deflects and now they cross. The Kiwis appeal for a run out which has been referred as well but the replays find Shreyas fine.
14.1
1
Back of a length delivery on middle and off, Iyer moves back and guides it down to third man for a run.
Hamish Bennett is back on! 2-0-18-0 from him so far.
In over# 1
0
1
1
0
0W
0
Ish Sodhi 22/2(3)
13.6
.
Shortish and on off, slapped back to the bowler. Sodhi did well to stop it in his followthrough. Just 2 runs and a wicket from the over, superb one by Ish!
13.5
1
Sodhi drags his length short and delivers it outside off, Shreyas cuts it through point and picks a run.
13.4
1
Full and outside off, it's forced to long off for one.
13.3
.
Flatter delivery on off, defended off the back foot.
Manish Pandey joins Shreyas Iyer out in the middle!
13.2
W
OUT! Shivam holes out and it's yet another roadblock for India! Sodhi dishes out a well-disguised googly and lands it full around middle, Dube aims to clear wide long on with a big flourish of his bat but fails to get enough meat behind his shot. Tim Southee moves swiftly across to his left from long on and takes the catch with ease. 62 needed off 40 balls.
This can be a very key over for New Zealand as the left-hander can tonk a few out of the park.
13.1
.
SAFELY IN! Never left his crease. Flatter and shorter outside off, Dube tries to cut but misses. Seifert is quick to dislodge the bails and appeals. It's referred upstairs but the replays find Dube easily in. In fact both his legs were inside the crease. Waste of time.
Ish Sodhi is back on. 2-0-20-1 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
1
6
4
0
1
1
Mitchell Santner 50/1(4)
12.6
1
Shortish and outside off, dabbed towards short third man for a run. 13 from the over, India needed that after the fall of Kohli's wicket.
12.5
6
SIX! Up and over deep mid-wicket! Santner continues to fire it in, it's full and on middle, Shivam heaves it across the line and just manages to clear the fielder at the edge of the boundary line.
12.4
4
FOUR! Blazed away! Santner sends this quicker and fuller outside off, Dube picks the area and hammers it over the bowler's head. The long off fielder gets across to his left but fails to cut it off.
12.3
.
Flatter one, shorter in length outside off, Shivam mistimes his back foot punch to covers.
12.2
1
Played to the point region by the batsman. They pick up a single.
12.1
1
Flatter one, around middle and leg, helped behind square leg for a run.
In over# 1
1
0
1
4
2
0W
Blair Tickner 34/1(3)
11.6
1
Dube opens the face of the bat and helps it to third man. The batsmen have run through for a single. 8 runs and a big wicket from the over!
11.5
.
Too full in length and outside off, pushed to covers.
11.4
1
Angles in a full ball on middle, Shreyas eases it down to long on for one.
11.3
4
FOUR! That's some shot from Iyer! Tickner delivers it on a length outside off, Shreyas stays back and spanks it over mid off for a boundary.
11.2
2
Fuller length ball outside off, driven through covers for a couple of runs.
Shivam Dube walks in next.
11.1
W
OUT! Guptill takes a stunner, running in from the deep! Kohli is sent packing and this is a body blow to India. Tickner spears in a fuller length ball down the leg side, following the batsman, Kohli uses his wrists to flick it across the line but mistimes it badly. The ball loops in the air and Guptill charges forward from deep mid-wicket to take a ripper of a catch, inches above the surface. 83 needed off 53 balls and now it's game on!
Blair Tickner is back on. 2-0-26-0 are his numbers.
In over# 1
1
1
1
1wd
1
0
1
Mitchell Santner 37/1(3)
10.6
1
Flighted ball on middle, pushed towards mid on where the fielder misfielded and allowed a run.
10.5
1
A lazy shot! Shortish and outside off, spinning away, Iyer plays at it half-heartedly and lofts it over covers. They pick up a single.
10.4
1
Eases a full ball down to long off and rotates the strike. Good over, so far.
10.4
1wd
Wide! Tossed up ball down the leg side, Kohli watches the line closely and lets it be.
10.3
1
Pushed to the cover region by the batsman. One run added to the total.
10.2
.
Gets forward to drive with the spin but finds the short extra cover fielder.
10.1
1
Short in length and outside off, Kohli cuts it with the spin to sweeper cover for a run.
Shreyas Iyer is the next man in. Also, Mitchell Santner returns into the attack. 2-0-31-1 are his numbers so far.
In over# 1
0W
1wd
1
1
1
1
1wd
1
1wd
Ish Sodhi 20/1(2)
9.6
W
OUT! Southee catches it safely! Crucial breakthrough for New Zealand! A flighted full ball around off, Rahul makes room and aims to heave it across the line but it takes the top edge. Tim Southee charges forward from long off and completes the catch safely. The partnership of 99 runs has been broken and India need 89 more runs to win this match at the halfway stage.
9.6
1wd
Third wide in the over! Sodhi once again serves a tossed up delivery way wide outside off, Rahul allows it through.
9.5
1
Doesn't get all of his bat on this one! Shortish ball on off, Kohli pulls it down towards long on for just a run.
9.4
1
Sodhi goes quicker and flatter through the air, serves it a bit short and on middle, Rahul stays back and drills it down to long on for one.
9.3
1
A googly on the slower side, it's a touch short too, Virat moves back and taps it down towards short third man for a run.
9.2
1
Flatter ball on middle, on the shorter side, Rahul goes back and works it through mid-wicket for a run.
9.2
1wd
Wide! This is just pressure that these two batsmen have put on the Kiwis. Sodhi tries to stay away from the hitting zone and ends up bowling it way outside off. Rahul has nothing to do with it.
9.1
1
Flighted delivery, landing full on middle, Kohli plays a fancy flick shot through mid-wicket for a single.
9.1
1wd
Wide! Poor start, short and way down the leg side, the batsman leaves it.
Ish Sodhi returns. 1-0-12-0 from him so far.
In over# 1
1
1
6
2nb
1wd
2
2
1
Blair Tickner 26/0(2)
8.6
1
Uses his feet to come down the track and smashes a length ball through extra cover for one. 16 from the over, 97 needed off 66 balls.
8.5
1
Does the smart thing. Has got the boundary so Rahul just eases a full ball to long on for a run.
8.4
6
SIX! Rahul makes full use of the Free Hit! Notches up his 10th T20I fifty in style. Back of a length delivery outside off, Rahul hangs back inside the crease and hoists it over long on for a maximum. Superb knock by KL and he is just extending his good run of form. India are cruising!
8.4
2nb
Oversteps this time and bowls a no ball. Fullish and on off, Kohli drives it to long on for a run. Free Hit loading...
8.4
1wd
Wide called for height! Tickner digs in a short ball and it goes well over the batsman. Kohli leaves.
8.3
2
On the pads, eased behind square leg for a couple of runs.
8.2
2
CHANCE! Kohli is in danger... THE BALL FALLS SAFELY! Sodhi is the culprit. The Indian spectators in the crowd are delighted. Fullish ball around off, Virat attempts to heave it over the leg side but gets a big top edge. Sodhi tries to circle underneath it but fails to do so cleanly. It's a swirling chance and Ish only manages a few fingertips on it. Big miss. Two runs taken.
8.1
1
Angling down the leg side, it's worked towards square leg for a single.
Blair Tickner returns! 1-0-10-0 are his numbers so far.
In over# 1
1
6
4
0
2
1
Mitchell Santner 31/1(2)
7.6
1
It's been driven superbly through the covers. They pick up a single. 14 from the over and India are on the right path.
7.5
6
SIX! Smashed away! Santner goes flat and short around off, Rahul anticipates that, he transfers his weight on the back leg and spanks it over long off.
7.4
4
FOUR! Straight as an arrow! Full and flighted around off, Rahul strides forward and lifts it over the bowler's head for a boundary. The long on fielder fails to cut it off. Minimum risk in that shot!
7.3
.
Defended off the front foot by the batsman presenting the full face of the bat.
7.2
2
Flatter, quicker and shorter on middle, Rahul turns it off his pads through mid-wicket for a couple of runs.
7.1
1
Loopy full ball around off, Kohli drives it to long off for a single.
Mitchell Santner is back on. 1-0-17-1 from him so far.
In over# 1
1
4
1wd
1
1wd
2
1
1
Ish Sodhi 12/0(1)
6.6
1
Pushed to the cover region by the batsman. One run added to the total. 127 needed off 78 balls.
6.5
4
FOUR! Bang! As soon as Sodhi bowls it near the line of the stumps, Kohli attacks it with all his might and play a thunderous pull shot to find the deep mid-wicket fence.
6.5
1wd
Wide! Sodhi feels the pressure seeing Kohli in front and bowls it way wide outside off. It's left alone.
6.4
1
Drags his length short and delivers it on middle, Rahul punches it to long on for one.
6.4
1wd
Wide! This one is served way wide outside off, Rahul allows it through to the keeper.
6.3
2
Flatter and shorter, close to off, Rahul moves deep inside the crease and cuts it through point. Taylor makes the stop near the fence and saves two.
6.2
1
Tossed up delivery, this time the line is straighter, around middle and leg, Kohli forces it down to long on for a run.
6.1
1
Flighted and full on off, it's driven off the front foot to long off for a single. 50-run stand comes up between the two!
Ish Sodhi comes to bowl now.
In over# 1
1
1
4
0
1
1
Hamish Bennett 18/0(2)
5.6
1
Too full in length on middle, knocked down to long on for a single to complete the over. India are 65/1 after the end of the Powerplay!
5.5
1
The batsman works it down the leg side. They pick up a single.
5.4
4
FOUR! Shot! Right from the screws. Bennett dares to bowl it short and Kohli shows no qualms in pulling it to the deep mid-wicket fence.
5.3
.
Very full ball on middle, pushed out to mid on.
5.2
1
COMPLETE MISCOMMUNICATION! India are very lucky to not lose a wicket. A fuller length ball close to off, Rahul pushes it with gentle hands to extra cover and sets off. Kohli responds but then Rahul stutters. Although the skipper has gone past him and KL has to continue with his running. Luckily for him, the fielder misses his shy at the bowler's end. The mid on fielder does the back-up and immediately releases his throw at the non-striker's end again. Bennett doesn't collect thinking that it would hit the stumps but the ball misses the stumps and Rahul dives in to get saved.
5.1
1
Driven towards the mid off region. The batsmen have run through for a single.
Hamish Bennett is back into the attack. 1-0-10-0 from him so far.
In over# 1
4
6
1
3
1
1
Tim Southee 20/0(2)
4.6
4
FOUR! Edgy this time! Southee hurries up the batsman with a short ball, Rahul hangs back to pull but it takes the top edge. Luckily for him it flies over short fine leg and finds the fence. 16 from the over and India are on the charge!
4.5
6
SIX! Wrists of steel! Southee spears in a fuller length ball on on middle, Rahul swings his bat firmly across the line and sends it packing over mid-wicket for a biggie. The master of this shot is at the other end and he would have loved that rotation of wrists shown by KL.
4.4
1
The batsman guides it to third man. They pick up a single.
4.3
3
What a shot! Southee doesn't do a lot wrong with his line. He keeps following the batsman down the leg side with a good length ball but Rahul still manages to cut it through the gap at backward point for a three runs.
4.2
1
Digs in a short ball on off, Kohli pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
4.1
1
The line is quite straight and it's been tucked in the gap at mid-wicket for a single.
Tim Southee returns. 1-0-4-0 from him so far.
In over# 1
2
1
1
0
0
6
Blair Tickner 10/0(1)
3.6
2
Superb delivery. Tickner follows Kohli down the leg side with a low full toss, it's worked with gentle hands to deep mid-wicket for a couple of runs. Excellent running by the two batsmen. 41/1 in 4 overs, good going from India!
3.5
1
Bowls it full and on the pads, Rahul helps it towards mid-wicket and steals a single. Direct hit at the bowler's end would have been close. In fact out, shows the replay. Rahul survives.
3.4
1
Clocks 142 kph and serves it on a good length on middle and leg, Kohli stays leg side to this ball and taps it down at covers for a quick run.
3.3
.
Shows the full face of the bat and defends the ball off the back foot.
3.2
.
Beaten! Tickner delivers it on a good length outside off and clocks 138 kph, Kohli pushes inside the line and misses.
3.1
6
SIX! That's some way to welcome the new bowler! Tickner pitches it on a length and outside off, slower in pace, Kohli picks it early and lofts it nonchalantly over long off for a maximum. That was a very elegant hit from the Indian skipper!
Bowling change! Blair Tickner comes into the attack.
In over# 1
1
1
1
1wd
2
4
0
Hamish Bennett 10/0(1)
2.6
1
Another length ball on middle, Kohli works it towards the leg side for a single. 10 from the debutant's first over.
2.5
1
Too full in length on middle, KL eases it off his pads and finds the gap at mid-wicket for run. Runs the first run hard, wants the second but it's not on.
2.4
1
Slower in pace this time, full and on middle, Kohli waits and works it behind square leg for a single.
2.4
1wd
Wide! Slips a good length ball down the leg side, Kohli tries to flick but misses.
2.3
2
Lovely wrist work by the Indian skipper! Bennett angles in a length ball on middle and leg, Kohli flicks it in the gap at deep mid-wicket and returns for the second run.
2.2
4
FOUR! Kohli shows who is the boss out there! He fetches a shortish ball from around off and thumps it wide of mid on for a boundary. Virat doesn't take long to get going!
2.1
.
Beaten! Express delivery by the debutant. He angles across a shortish delivery wide outside off, Kohli chases and misses.
Debutant Hamish Bennett is into the attack.
In over# 1
4
1
0W
6
0
2wd
4
Mitchell Santner 17/1(1)
1.6
4
FOUR! Poor delivery and punished. 17 from the over but it also had the all-important wicket of Rohit Sharma. Short in length and around off, Rahul camps back and pulls it over mid-wicket for a boundary.
1.5
1
Driven towards the mid off region. They pick up a single.
Virat Kohli arrives in the middle at number 3.
1.4
W
OUT! Rohit falls and it's a big blow to India! Santner this time slows it up in the air and lands it full around off, Rohit kneels down for the slog sweep but it spins away a bit to take the top edge of his bat. Taylor at backward point settles underneath it and takes the simplest of catches. New Zealand will be delighted with this breakthrough. The danger man departs cheaply!
1.3
6
SIX! This one is right in the slot and dismissed! Santner fires in a full ball on middle, Rohit clears his front leg and launches it over long on for a maximum.
1.2
.
Flashes and misses! Santner comes up with a sharp arm ball outside off, Rohit attempts to go downtown but misses.
1.2
2wd
Bonus runs! Santner fires one way down the leg side, KL leaves and Seifert fumbles while collecting. The batsmen cross as well. Two wides in total!
1.1
4
FOUR! Straightaway use of the feet by Rahul. He jumps down the track to a fuller length ball around off and smashes it over extra cover. They would try to attack the spinner and not allow him to settle down.
Mitchell Santner to operate from the other end.
In over# 1
0
0
1
2
0
1
Tim Southee 4/0(1)
0.6
.
Beauty to beat the bat! Southee slants in a length ball close to off and gets it to straighten from there, Rohit pushes inside the line without any footwork and gets beaten comprehensively.
0.5
.
Angles in a full ball on off, Sharma covers the line and pushes it to mid off.
0.4
1
Width on offer outside off, Rahul uses the pace of the bowler and guides it to third man for a single.
0.3
2
Nice wrist work! Fuller length ball on middle, Rahul rotates his wrists and clips it through square leg for a couple of runs.
0.2
.
Finds Munro at point! Short in length and outside off, Rahul slaps it off his back foot but fails to meat the point fielder.
0.1
1
Starts with a length ball close to off, Sharma opens the face of the bat and eases it down to third man for a single. India are away!
Time for the run chase! The two Indian openers, KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma walk out to the middle. The Kiwi players are already out in the middle. Tim Southee with the ball first up.
Right then! 204 is what India need. They have quality batters in the side who can climb this mountain and with shorter boundary sizes, one would feel they will be aiming to get to it. New Zealand would want to strike early and put the Indians under pressure.
Indians were good with the ball early on but could not contain the batters after first couple of overs. With the shorter boundary sizes, it was always going to be tough for them. However, even then the likes of Bumrah, Chahal and Dube bowled economically. Mohammed Shami had a bad day at office as he gave away 53 runs in his 4-over spell.
It started with assault from the Kiwi openers who combined for an 80-run stand which they accumulated inside 7.5 overs. It was Munro who was the leader in that stand as he raked up a brilliant half ton in the process. Skipper Kane Williamson joined in after Guptill's wicket and went hammer and tongs from the word go. He smashed a 25-ball half ton before perishing to Chahal. Ross Taylor in the middle overs went berserk and smashed his half ton after nearly 6 years to take the Kiwi total over 200.
Wow! It was some striking from the Kiwi bowlers at the start and in the middle overs but India would feel that they have managed to keep the hosts to a chasable total. 203 is what New Zealand have managed to put on the board.
19.6
1
A single to end the innings! It is another bouncer on middle, Santner mistimes his pull and the ball goes towards fine leg. A single is taken and the batters show interest for the second run but is sent back. NEW ZEALAND END WITH 203 ON THE BOARD.
19.5
1
Short of a length ball on middle, Taylor can only get a single as he pulls it straight to long on.
19.4
2
Another couple! A low full toss on middle, Taylor whips it to deep mid-wicket and takes two.
19.3
2
FIFTY FOR ROSS TAYLOR. First in 6 years for him. A bouncer on middle, Taylor goes for the pull but mistimes it. However it goes over the short fine leg fielder and a couple of runs are taken.
Bumrah is down and the physio is out to check with him. He looks to be in pain there but is ready to finish off the over.
19.2
2
Full ball on middle, it is flicked for a couple to deep mid-wicket. Bumrah though is looking in pain as he has twisted his ankle there.
19.1
4
FOUR RUNNING RUNS! Kohli is not a happy man. A short ball on middle, Taylor mistimes his pull towards mid-wicket. Jadeja there misfields and a couple of runs are taken. Jadeja picks the ball and fires it towards the bowler's end but cannot collect it and it goes through and the batters bag another two more.
In over# 1
1
1
1
0
2
4
Mohammed Shami 53/0(4)
18.6
1
Good finish of the over from Shami! He bowls it full and wide outside off, Taylor pushes it straight to Shardul at covers. Only a single from the ball and 9 from it. 6 off the first two and then just 3 off the last 4 balls.
18.5
1
Full and around off, Santner looks to drill it down the ground but ends up hitting it off the toe end of the willow. A single.
18.4
1
Wide yorker this time, Taylor can only drill it to long off for a single.
18.3
.
Bouncer and a good one too. Taylor looks to pull but misses!
18.2
2
Excellent save from Dube! Shami goes outside off and bowls a full ball. Taylor drills it through the covers. It seems like it will race away to the fence but Dube makes an excellent stop to his right with a dive. A couple taken.
18.1
4
FOUR! Brilliantly timed! A full ball outside off from Shami to begin his final over. Taylor slams it right in the gap at deep mid-wicket and long on. Shami's poor game continues.
Mohammed Shami is back on. 3-0-44-0 are his figures.
In over# 1
1
0W
1
1
1
0
Jasprit Bumrah 19/1(3)
17.6
1
Low full toss on middle, it is pushed down to long on for a single. 4 runs and a wicket. Excellent stuff from India's top bowler.
Mitchell Santner walks in next.
17.5
W
OUT! CAUGHT! Brilliant slower delivery to deceive Tim Seifert! Full delivery on middle, Seifert looks to lift it over long on but does not time it well at all. The ball goes towards long on. Shreyas Iyer moves across and makes a good stop.
17.4
1
Short ball on off, Taylor looks to pull but it takes the bottom half of the bat and the ball goes towards long on. A single taken.
17.3
1
Low full toss on off, Seifert drives it to extra cover for a single.
17.2
1
Full delivery on middle, Taylor drives it to long on for a single.
17.1
.
Slower delivery outside off, Taylor is early into his drive and misses the ball altogether.
Tim Seifert is the new man in. Jasprit Bumrah is also back on. 2-0-15-0, his figures.
In over# 1
0W
4
0
4
4
1
Yuzvendra Chahal 32/1(4)
16.6
W
OUT! Caught! Chahal gets rid of Williamson on the last ball of his spell. Chahal flights this one and bowls it outside off, Williamson goes for the slog sweep once again but this time he is a bit early and the ball takes the top edge. The ball goes high in the air. Indian skipper at point calls for it and catches it easily. A very good wicket for the Indians this one as Williamson could've been really dangerous in the final few overs. Now, the Indians would look to keep the hosts under 200. Will they be able to do so?
16.5
4
FOUR! FIFTY FOR WILLIAMSON. 10th T20I half ton from him. Shortish again and around off, Williamson makes room and hammers it in the gap between long on and deep mid-wicket. It races away to the fence. 25-ball half ton for the skipper.
16.4
.
NOT OUT! Williamson did not lift is back leg at all. Flighted ball around off, Williamson looks to slog it away but misses. KL Rahul collects the ball and whips the bails off. The square leg umpire refers it upstairs and the replays roll in to confirm that Williamson is inside the crease.
Stumping appeal taken upstairs. It doesn't seem that Williamson has dragged his feet in the air. Let's see what happens.
16.3
4
FOUR! This time through the covers. Slightly short and outside off, Williamson stays on the back foot and slams it in the gap between long off and deep cover. The ball goes to the fence.
16.2
4
FOUR! Poor line and punished! Chahal strays on the pads of Williamson. He gets a hint across and sweeps it wide of the fielder in the deep. No chance for him to cut it off.
16.1
1
Flatter ball outside off, Taylor pushes it towards point for a single.
Yuzvendra Chahal is back on. 3-0-19-0 from him so far.
In over# 1
1
6
6
4
1
4
Mohammed Shami 44/0(3)
15.6
1
Full delivery on middle, Taylor whips it to deep mid-wicket for a single. 22 runs have come from the over.
15.5
6
SIX! Hammered! Taylor is in the mood now! Full delivery on middle, Taylor lifts it over the long on region for a maximum.
15.4
6
SIX! Bang! Short ball on middle, Taylor stands tall and then pulls it over the deep square leg region for a biggie.
15.3
4
FOUR! What is Chahal doing in the field! First let the ball go over his head and now lets the ball go to the boundary. Full delivery on middle, thrashes it towards deep square leg. Chahal comes across but fails to stop it. The ball goes into the fence. 150 up.
15.2
1
Length ball on middle, Williamson flicks it to deep square leg for a single.
15.1
4
FOUR! Poor bowling! Short delivery on the pads, Williamson pulls it over the short fine leg fielder for a boundary. Good start to the over.
Mohammed Shami is back on. 2-0-22-0 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
6
4
1
1
1
0
Ravindra Jadeja 18/1(2)
14.6
6
SIX! Hammered over mid-wicket! That's Taylor we all know. A full ball on off and middle, Ross gets in the position for slog sweep and connects it nicely. He deposits this ball way into the stand over deep mid-wicket. 10 from the last 2 balls.
14.5
4
FOUR! Innovation time from Taylor! He was playing conventional shots all this while and was able to bag singles one. This time he paddles this fuller ball outside off with the opposite side of his bat for a boundary to third man.
14.4
1
Flatter and just outside off, Taylor pushes it towards mid off and takes a run.
14.3
1
Floated on off, Taylor pushes it to long off and takes a run.
14.2
1
Quicker one outside off, Kane slaps it through covers for a single.
14.1
.
Full and outside off, Williamson makes room to drill it trough covers but ends up hitting it straight to skipper Kohli there.
In over# 1
0
0
1
6
1
1
Shivam Dube 24/1(3)
13.6
.
A dot to end the over! A slower one on off, Taylor looks to work it towards the leg side but the ball takes the outer part of his bat and goes towards the bowler.
13.5
.
Around off on a length, it is pushed towards point.
13.4
1
Another back of a length ball around off, Williamson dabs it towards third man for a single.
13.3
6
SIX! Pulled over the fielder! Chahal should've been near the ropes but he is standing well ahead. A short of a length ball on middle, Williamson pulls it over Chahal and it sails over the ropes. Had Chahal been near the ropes, he would've easily swallowed that.
13.2
1
Shortish length ball on off, it is guided towards third man for a single.
13.1
1
Length ball on middle, Williamson looks to work it towards the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads. The ball rolls towards mid-wicket and a leg bye has been taken.
Shivam Dube is back on.
In over# 1
1
1
1
1
0W
1
Ravindra Jadeja 5/1(1)
12.6
1
Flatter and on middle, worked towards deep mid-wicket for another single. 5 from the over and a wicket. Excellent start from Jadeja.
12.5
1
Another ball on middle and leg, it is worked towards the man at deep mid-wicket for another easy single.
12.4
1
Fires it on the stumps and bowls it short. Williamson pushes it towards deep mid-wicket and takes a single. He wanted the second but Taylor says no.
12.3
1
Flatter and on middle, it is worked towards the leg side for a single.
12.2
W
OUT! Caught! Jadeja strikes on the second ball of the over and de Grandhomme departs for a duck! Jadeja bowls it quick and on middle, de Grandhomme looks to flick it to fine leg but does so uppishly. Dube is positioned at short fine leg. He comes forward and pouches the ball comfortably. De Grandhomme could've been dangerous had he got going but he departs.
12.1
1
On middle, Williamson tucks it towards short fine leg and a single.
Ravindra Jadeja into the attack.
In over# 1
0
0W
1
6
6
1
Shardul Thakur 44/1(3)
11.6
.
Length ball on off, de Grandhomme pushes it to point.
Colin de Grandhomme is the new man in.
11.5
W
OUT! CAUGHT! Munro finds the fielder to perfection. It was not a wicket taking delivery but Thakur gets his first wicket. Short ball down the leg side, Munro hops and pulls it to deep square leg. Chahal stationed there does not even have to move an inch. He takes it safely and Munro has to depart after playing a brilliant knock. He loves playing against India and has provided the hosts with a good start.
11.4
1
The batsman opens the face of the bat and helps it to third man. They pick up a single.
11.3
6
SIX! Hits directly on the ropes. Shardul dishes out a full delivery on middle, Williamson plays it uppishly towards the deep square leg region for a biggie. The umpires check whether it is a boundary or a maximum. The replays show that the ball has hit flush on the ropes. Six signaled.
11.2
6
SIX! Nicely played! Full delivery on middle, Williamson heaves it away to the deep mid-wicket region for a biggie.
11.1
1
Full delivery outside off, Munro looks to drive but it takes the inside half of the bat and the ball goes to short fine leg. The batters take a single. The fielder has a shy at the bowler's end but misses. Munro was well in.
Shardul Thakur is back on. 2-0-30-0, his figures so far.
In over# 1
1
4
1
1
0
4
Yuzvendra Chahal 19/0(3)
10.6
1
A single to end the over! A fuller on off and middle, Munro sweeps it straight to Bumrah at short fine leg. He misfields and allows an easy single. 11 from the over, another good one for New Zealand.
10.5
4
FOUR! Just wide of the fielder. A fullish ball just outside off, Munro connects his sweep and smashes it wide of the fielder in the deep. It bounces over him and goes to the fence.
10.4
1
Short and on middle, Williamson pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
10.3
1
Full and on middle, Munro mistimes his slog sweep towards deep mid-wicket for a run.
10.2
.
Goes for the reverse sweep this time but misses as Chahal bowls a full ball outside off. It is well outside the tramline but since Munro had switched hands, not called wide by the umpire.
10.1
4
EDGY FOUR! But Fifty for Munro, his 10th in T20Is. A quicker one outside off from Chahal, Munro looks to cut but gets an outside edge. The ball races to the fence. Dube goes after it chasing but comes second.
In over# 1
6
0
1
0
0
0
Shivam Dube 15/1(2)
9.6
6
SIX! Lofted over covers! Brilliant shot from Williamson! A full ball outside off, Williamson makes room and lofts it over cover for a biggie! 91/1 at the end of 10 overs.
9.5
.
Now an appeal for LBW but nothing from the umpire again! A length ball angled into the batter, Williamson looks to flick but misses. The Indians make a loud appeal but not out says the umpire. Probably an inside edge there. But wait, replays roll in and it shows there's no inside edge on that.
9.4
1
On the pads this time, Munro flicks it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
9.3
.
Appeal for caught behind but not out says the umpire. Kohli thinks for the review there as he asks questions from his bowler and keeper but decides against the review. A back of a length ball on the leg side, Munro looks to pull but misses. Rahul pouches the ball and appeals but nothing from the umpire.
9.2
.
Shorter and around off, this time Munro pushes it towards covers off his back foot.
9.1
.
Good length ball outside off, Munro looks to slap it through covers but mistimes it and it goes straight to the fielder.
In over# 1
1
1
0
0
0
1
Yuzvendra Chahal 8/0(2)
8.6
1
Floated on the pads, Munro lunges and pulls it uppishly towards deep square leg. A single taken. Good over from Chahal. Only 3 runs from it.
8.5
1
Off the mark! Flat one outside off, Kane punches it to deep cover for a single.
8.4
.
Loopy delivery on middle, Williamson taps it to short third man.
8.3
.
Loopy delivery on off, Williamson pushes it to cover.
8.2
.
Flatter one on middle, Williamson defends it back to the bowler off the back foot.
8.1
1
Flighted ball outside off, Munro lunges and drives it to deep cover for a single.
In over# 1
1
0W
1
1
1
4
Shivam Dube 8/1(1)
7.6
1
Length ball on middle, Munro tucks it towards leg side and takes a single.
Kane Williamson, the skipper makes his way out to the middle.
7.5
W
OUT! Caught! Dube strikes and it's a sharp catch from Rohit. Dube bowls a shorter one on the body. Guptill goes for the pull but does not time it well as the ball bounces extra. It goes towards Rohit Sharma who is stationed at deep square leg. He takes the catch well but his balance is not there. He realizes that and lobs the ball in the air and returns to pouch it easily. The umpires refer it upstairs and the replays roll in and show that Rohit did touch the ropes there but he had lobbed the ball in the air during that time which means Guptill needs to keep walking. Brilliant from Dube as he was hit for a boundary on the very first ball of the over but he has broken the threatening stand.
7.4
1
Smart from Dube this time! Seeing Munro making a move to make room outside off, he bowls it full and outside off. Munro reaches out and squeezes it to deep cover for a single.
7.3
1
A length ball angled into the batter, Guptill pushes it towards long on for a run.
7.2
1
Full ball outside off, Munro drills it to deep cover for a single.
7.1
4
FOUR! Welcome into the attack, Mr. Dube, says Munro. A length ball outside off, Munro just lofts it over the man at mid off and it races away to the fence. A boundary off the first ball means pressure is straightaway on the bowler.
Shivam Dube is into the attack.
In over# 1
0
1
0
2
1
1
Yuzvendra Chahal 5/0(1)
6.6
.
A loopy ball on middle, Guptill comes forward and looks to push it towards the leg side but misses to get hit on the pads.
6.5
1
Outside off and short again, Munro cuts it through covers for a single.
6.4
.
Almost the first wicket! Another slightly shortish length but it is bowled slower through the air. Munro is early into his heave over the leg side and misses. The ball misses the off pole by slightest of the margin.
6.3
2
Short and outside off, Munro punches it through covers and before the fielder in the deep can come to pick the ball and throw it to the keeper, Munro gets two.
6.2
1
Another single! This time it is a tossed up ball outside off, Guptill pushes it to long off and takes a single.
6.1
1
Chahal starts with a flatter ball outside off, Munro cuts it to deep cover and a run is taken.
Yuzvendra Chahal into the attack.
In over# 1
6
2
1wd
1
1wd
0
1
4
Mohammed Shami 22/0(2)
5.6
6
SIX! What timing from Guptill! All class written on that one! A length ball on middle and leg, Guptill gets in the position and just launches it over long on for a maximum. Held is pose for the cameramen there. 16 from the over and at the end of the Powerplay, New Zealand are 68/0.
5.5
2
Brilliant running between the wickets! A slower ball on middle, Guptill gently works it behind square leg and scampers back for the couple.
5.5
1wd
WIDE! A back of a length ball on middle, Guptill looks to pull but misses. It goes way over the batsman and called wide.
5.4
1
A shortish length ball on the body, Munro works it to deep mid-wicket and takes a single.
5.4
1wd
WIDE! Down the leg side and on a shortish length. Munro looks to hammer it to fine leg but misses! Called wide by the umpire.
5.3
.
Full and outside off, Munro drills it straight to mid off.
5.2
1
Another length ball on middle and leg, Martin works it towards square leg and takes a single.
5.1
4
FOUR! Just helps it down the leg side. A length ball on middle and leg, Munro just lofts it over the man at square leg and it races away to the fence in the deep.
Mohammed Shami is back into the attack. 1-0-6-0 are his figures.
In over# 1
2
0
0
1
0
1wd
4
Jasprit Bumrah 15/0(2)
4.6
2
A couple to end the over and it is off the misfield. A full ball on middle, Munro flicks it towards deep mid-wicket where Pandey misfields and allows an extra. 8 from Bumrah's 2nd over.
4.5
.
An appeal for LBW from the bowler! Another slower one from Bumrah. It is a length ball around off, Munro looks to push it towards the off side but misses to get hit on the pads. An appeal from the bowler but nothing from the umpire. Probably pitched outside leg.
4.4
.
A slower one from Bumrah. It is another length ball around off, Munro pushes it towards point.
4.3
1
Length ball on off, Martin taps it towards point and takes a quick single. 50 up for New Zealand.
4.2
.
Follows Guptill this time and bowls it slightly shortish on middle, Guptill pushes it back to the bowler.
4.2
1wd
WIDE! Sprays down the leg side. Guptill lets it be. Called wide!
4.1
4
FOUR! Misfield from Thakur and this won't please Bumrah! A good length ball on middle, Guptill moves towards off side and guides it towards third man. Thakur is there at third man. He runs to his left and slides to stop the ball but misfields and it goes to the fence. Bumrah is not a happy man.
Jasprit Bumrah is back on. His first over cost 7 runs.
In over# 1
4
0
6
4
2
2
Shardul Thakur 30/0(2)
3.6
4
FOUR! Over the keeper and into the fence. A bouncer on middle from Thakur, Munro looks to pull but gets a top edge which goes over the leaping keeper for another boundary. 18 from the over.
3.5
.
A dot now! Thakur follows the batsman and bowls it on the pads. Munro looks to flick but misses.
3.4
6
SIX! This time all timing from Munro! Brilliant batting! Another full ball on middle and leg, Munro gets under it and lofts it over long on for another maximum.
3.3
4
FOUR! Smashed! Full ball on middle, Munro makes some room and then hammers it to long on fence. That was drilled really hard.
3.2
2
Not from the middle of the bat but another couple for Munro! A good length ball outside off, Munro makes room and looks to go over cover. He does so but fails to time it well. It goes to the deep and before the fielder from the ring can get to the ball, Munro takes two more.
3.1
2
On the pads on a fuller length, Munro flicks it to deep mid-wicket and returns for a couple before the deep square leg fielder can get to the ball.
In over# 1
1
0
4
1wd
0
1lb
0
Mohammed Shami 6/0(1)
2.6
1
Landed on a length and on middle, Munro tucks it towards square leg for a single.
2.5
.
Swing and a miss! A length ball outside off, Munro looks to heave it over long off but makes no connection.
2.4
4
FOUR! Pulled away! Another bouncer attempt from Shami but this one does not rise as much as he would've expected it to be. However, it is on a perfect height for Munro who just pulls it to the deep square leg fence.
2.4
1wd
WIDE! Back of a length ball on middle and leg. Munro ducks under it. The square leg umpire wides it pretty late. Shami is not pleased.
2.3
.
Around off and middle on a length, Munro works it towards mid-wicket.
2.2
1lb
Shortish ball on the body, Guptill looks to work it around the corner but misses to get hit on the body. The ball rolls towards the leg side and a leg bye is taken.
2.1
.
A length ball around off, Guptill pushes it towards point with an angled bat and shouts a loud no to his partner.
Mohammed Shami is on now.
In over# 1
6
0
0
1
4
1
Shardul Thakur 12/0(1)
1.6
6
SIX! Short boundary straight and it sails over! First one of the innings. A slightly fuller ball outside off, Munro makes room by going towards the leg side and then launches it over long off for a biggie! A good over for New Zealand this one. 12 from it.
1.5
.
Slightly shortish ball around off and middle, Murno keeps it out off his back foot.
1.4
.
A length ball around off, it is pushed towards covers.
1.3
1
Another quick single! Shardul bowls a fuller ball around off and middle, Guptill strokes it to mid on and takes a quick run. Shami picks the ball there and fires the throw at the non-striker's end but he misses.
1.2
4
FOUR! Poor ball from Shardul and it got the punishment it deserved. Thakur strays on the pads. Guptill just helps it on its way to the fine leg fence.
1.1
1
Quick run but excellent stop from Rohit too. Shardul starts with a length ball on middle, Munro works it towards mid-wicket and takes a quick run. Rohit does well to dive to his left to stop the ball.
Shardul Thakur will bowl from the other end.
In over# 1
0
1
0
1wd
1
4
0
Jasprit Bumrah 7/0(1)
0.6
.
Slightly short and around off, Guptill stands tall and defends it towards point. A decent over for both sides.
0.5
1
Another brilliant yorker from Bumrah. Munro though is up for the challenge as he does well to tuck it towards deep square leg to get off the mark.
0.4
.
Corrects the line this time and delivers the yorker outside off, Munro looks to squeeze it to the off side but misses.
0.4
1wd
WIDE! Bumrah looks for the yorker first up but dishes it out down the leg side. Munro looks to flick but misses. Wided by the umpire.
0.3
1
Misfield and a run! A full ball this time and it is on middle, Guptill flicks it towards mid-wicket where Chahal misfields. A single taken before he can get up and pick the ball again.
0.2
4
FOUR! Up and over! Guptill is underway! Another length ball outside off, Guptill takes a couple of steps forward and lofts it over the man at mid off. It clears him and races away to the long off fence.
0.1
.
Beaten first up! Bumrah is right on the money for the first ball. It is a length ball just around off, Guptill feels for it first up as he looks to defend but gets beaten.
It is time for the action now. The Kiwi openers, Martin Guptill and Colin Munro are out in the middle. The Indian players take the field too. Jasprit Bumrah will start the proceedings for India first up. Here we go...
Time for the National Anthems first up. Both the sides walk out to the middle to stand in respect of the their respective national anthems.
India (Playing XI) - Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul (WK), Virat Kohli (C), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami.
New Zealand (Playing XI) - Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson (C), Tim Seifert (WK), Ross Taylor, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Blair Tickner, Hamish Bennett (T20I DEBUT).
India skipper, Virat Kohli, says that the pitch looks really nice to bat on. Tells that they would look to strike quickly in the initial overs. Tells that they are fine after traveling all the way from Bangalore after finishing their ODI series. On the comeback of India in that series, Kohli belies that they showed great character in that series. Says that the side can bounce back from difficult situation and that gives them an edge in unfamiliar conditions. Tells that Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar are the players from the squad who miss out.
New Zealand skipper, Kane Williamson, says that it was a 50-50 decision at the Toss. Feels that they have a great opportunity to play against one of the best sides in the world. Tells that they would look to execute their plans better and become a good side. Reveals that Mitchell and Kuggeleijn are the two players who are not playing.
TOSS - Kane Williamson flips the coin and it lands in India's favor. INDIA WILL BOWL FIRST.
Pitch Report - Scott Styris is down for the pitch report. Tells that there was a little rain overnight. He though confirms that rain will mostly stay away during the game. Feels that with shorter boundaries, no target is safe on this deck. Sunil Gavaskar joins him for the pitch report and says that the track is looking really good for batting. Feels that the surface is really hard and the ball will come on the bat nicely. Styris feels that both the sides will be able to do really well on this wicket.
It is almost time for the start of the 1st T20I between New Zealand and India as both the sides plan to finalize their 15 men for the T20 World Cup in Australia. India arrive on the shores of Kiwiland with a thumping victory against the Aussies in the ODI series while New Zealand were hammered by Australia in the Test series. However, as they say, a fresh series is a fresh beginning. Both sides would look to start afresh and take one game at a time and march forward. Let's see who takes the first step correctly. Be with us for the toss and team updates.
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