Opening with Abhishek Sharma, the duo smashed 93 runs in the powerplay, dismantling NZ’s top-order attack. While spinner Mitchell Santner slowed things down later, Shreyas Iyer and Naman Dhir ensured the momentum stayed with India. Samson called their flying start the turning point: 'Six overs, 90-odd runs; that’s where we won it.' India’s bold decision to bowl first paid off, exploiting evening dew. With the series now 1-0, all eyes are on Saturday’s rematch in Christchurch. Samson’s form and India’s batting depth could redefine how T20 chases are approached globally.