New Zealand post record T20I score against India

New Zealand set a new record for the highest T20I total against India, reaching 259 for seven in Auckland on Friday. This surpassed the previous record of 257 for three by England in Southampton earlier in 2026.

Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell were instrumental in the innings, scoring 107 and 65 respectively. Their 115-run partnership for the fifth wicket kept the Indian bowlers under pressure throughout the match.

Phillips also became the leading run-scorer in T20I series against India, surpassing previous records. His aggressive approach against India's bowlers, particularly Nitish Kumar Reddy, helped New Zealand maintain their momentum.

New Zealand faced early setbacks with the loss of Tim Seifert and Daryl Mitchell to Mayank Yadav, but recovered through a 59-run partnership between Phillips and Finn Allen for the third wicket. Allen and Bevon Jacobs later departed, briefly slowing the team's progress.

Phillips and Bracewell then took control, with Phillips hitting a six and four fours off Prince Yadav and later scoring 32 runs off Nitish Kumar Reddy in a single over. Bracewell also contributed with three fours and a six against left-arm spinner Axar Patel.

Despite being dismissed by Prince Yadav, Phillips continued to dominate, bringing up his third T20I century in 46 balls with a six off Arshdeep Singh. New Zealand added 85 runs in the final five overs to finish on 259 for seven.