Christchurch, Oct. 22 -- A fluent fifty from Sanju Samson and a majestic finishing touch from Naman Dhir powered India to a 4-wicket victory over New Zealand in the 1st T20I in Christchurch on Thursday.

Samson laid the foundation for India's chase with a brilliant 67-run knock. However, his dismissal triggered a mini-collapse, putting the visitors under pressure.

Dhir and skipper Shreyas Iyer stepped up at a crucial time, steadying the innings and guiding India to a win.

Dhir remained unbeaten on 42 off just 15 deliveries, smashing five fours and two sixes to guide India to victory and hand the visitors a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.

Chasing a target of 226, India got off to a flying start with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Sam...