New Zealand vs India is back in focus as the teams meet in the second T20I of their five-match series in Christchurch on Saturday, October 24, 2026. India took a 1-0 lead after a thrilling opening match, and New Zealand will be looking to level the series at Hagley Oval.
Match note: This article was prepared while the second T20I was in progress. Check a live scorecard for the latest score and final result before relying on match-state details.
New Zealand vs India: Second T20I at a glance
- Match: New Zealand vs India, 2nd T20I
- Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Series: India tour of New Zealand, five-match T20I series
- Series position before the match: India led 1-0
For viewers in the United States, the time difference is important: the match begins in New Zealand on Saturday morning local time, which means it falls on Friday afternoon or evening in many US time zones. Check your local listing for the exact broadcast or streaming availability.
What happened in the first New Zealand vs India T20I?
The series opener on October 22 delivered a high-scoring finish. New Zealand made 225 for 4 in 20 overs after batting first at Hagley Oval. India chased the target down, reaching 230 for 6 in 19.4 overs to win by four wickets with two balls remaining.
Sanju Samson led India’s chase with 67 from 33 balls. Shreyas Iyer added 42 from 28 deliveries, while Axar Patel scored 24 from 14. Naman Dhir then produced a decisive unbeaten 42 from just 15 balls to help India finish the chase. The result gave India a 1-0 lead in the series.
Key players and storylines to watch
Sanju Samson sets the tone
Samson’s quick half-century in the first match gave India an aggressive start in a demanding chase. New Zealand will want early wickets to prevent the Indian top order from controlling the required run rate.
Naman Dhir’s finishing impact
Dhir’s unbeaten 42 from 15 balls was central to India’s record chase. His ability to score boundaries under pressure could again matter if the match reaches a close finish.
New Zealand need control with the ball
After posting 225, New Zealand could not defend the total. The home side will look for better control in the middle and death overs, along with sharper fielding, to avoid another high-scoring chase.
Ishan Kishan ruled out
India confirmed that Ishan Kishan would miss the second T20I after sustaining a low-grade right adductor strain in the series opener. Kumar Kushagra was added to the squad as cover. The absence changes India’s available batting options, though the final playing XI should be checked close to the start.
New Zealand vs India series schedule
- 1st T20I: October 22, Christchurch — India won by four wickets.
- 2nd T20I: October 24, Christchurch.
- 3rd T20I: October 27, Wellington.
- 4th T20I: October 30, Auckland.
- 5th T20I: November 1, Hamilton.
How can US fans follow New Zealand vs India?
US fans should check their preferred cricket streaming service and local sports listings for live coverage, as availability can vary by tournament rights and provider. Official match centers are also useful for ball-by-ball updates, scorecards, playing XIs and final results. Because the match takes place in New Zealand, double-check the date and start time in your own time zone.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the first New Zealand vs India T20I?
India won the first T20I by four wickets on October 22, 2026, chasing New Zealand’s 225 for 4 with two balls to spare.
Where is the second T20I being played?
The second T20I is scheduled for Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand.
What is the series score before the second T20I?
India entered the second match leading the five-match series 1-0.
Will Ishan Kishan play in the second T20I?
No. He was ruled out after sustaining a low-grade right adductor strain in the first match, and Kumar Kushagra was added as cover.
Final take
The New Zealand vs India series has already produced a memorable opening game, with India’s powerful chase giving the visitors an early advantage. New Zealand have home conditions and an opportunity to respond in Christchurch. For the most useful update, confirm the final score and any late team changes after the second T20I concludes.