India opted to field first in the opening T20I against New Zealand on Thursday, 22 October 2026, and the decision paid off when Axar Patel removed Finn Allen, NDTV Sports reports. New Zealand's score stood at 86/2 when the wicket fell, according to News18. NDTV Sports described the dismissal as India fighting back by cleaning up the Kiwi dangerman, while Hindustan Times reported that Axar ended Allen's aggressive spell at the crease.
India's team selection drew attention before play. Outlook India reports that Bhuvneshwar was included in the side, while Sooryavanshi was left out, as India chose to bowl after the toss.
Allen had been scoring quickly before his dismissal, with Hindustan Times characterising his innings as a power-hitting spree that Axar brought to a halt. News18 also referred to Allen as a dangerman for New Zealand, underlining the importance of the breakthrough for the hosts.
The live coverage from NDTV Sports and other outlets tracked the match ball by ball, with the score at 86/2 at the point Allen departed.
With the first wicket of note in the bag, India will look to build pressure through the middle overs, while New Zealand need to rebuild around their remaining batters. The rest of the series, and how both sides respond to this opening result, is the next thing to watch.
