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'That little phase' - Dinesh Karthik lauds Gautam Gambhir for smart decision during record run chase in 1st T20I vs New Zealand

India's record-breaking T20I chase at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, securing a 1-0 lead in the series against New Zealand, was marked by tactical brilliance. Following an explosive start from Sanju Samson (60) and Abhishek Sharma (29), the team slumped to 122 for four as Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell controlled the middle overs.

However, Axar Patel's promotion in the batting order, a decision by head coach Gautam Gambhir, proved decisive. Axar's 24 off 14 balls helped shift the momentum back to India, supporting Shreyas Iyer (42) and Naman Dhir (42*) to reach 230 for six in 19.4 overs, surpassing their previous best chase of 209 against Australia in 2023.

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