Sanju Samson, who was named Player of the Match, hailed young batter Naman Dhir as a great prospect for India after Dhir's finishing display powered India to a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the opening T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday, ANI reported.

Source: ANI via LatestLY

"I think a lot of credit must go to Naman Dhir. He has played only four or five international games for India, yet he stepped up in a crucial situation, kept his composure under pressure and guided the team to a valuable victory. He is definitely a great prospect for Indian cricket in the years to come," Samson told reporters after the match, according to ANI.

Chasing 226, India completed their highest-ever successful run chase in T20I cricket, reaching 230 for six with two balls to spare to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Samson's 33-ball 67 anchored the top order before a middle-order collapse threatened the chase, and Dhir's explosive unbeaten 42 off just 15 balls sealed the win, ANI reported. The scorecard confirms New Zealand made 225 for four, with Glenn Phillips unbeaten on 82, and India replied with 230 for six in 19.4 overs, Khelnow's scorecard records.

Samson also said the team places a strong emphasis on physical fitness and mental well-being to cope with India's packed T20I schedule, which has taken the side across Ireland, England, Japan and the West Indies before this New Zealand series, ANI reported.