India crush Kiwis in Delhi T20I; lead Series 1-0

Insight Bureau: Champions New Zealand got a taste of India’s batting prowess, as they were crushed by 53 runs in the first T20I in Delhi tonight. India have now taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Earlier, India posted a highly competitive total of 202/3 in 20 overs. Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan who added 158 runs for the first wicket, scored 80 runs each. Virat Kohli contributed an unbeaten 26. Ish Sodhi took two wickets.

Chasing a victory target of 203, New Zealand lost wickets at regular intervals and finished at 149/8 in 20 overs.

Kane Williamson 28, Latham 39 and Santner 27* were the top contributors. Yuzvendra Chahal and Axar Patel took two wickets each. Ashish Nehra played his last T20I today. He finally bid adieu to cricket.