India eye first-ever win at Hagley Oval against New Zealand on Oct 22

Spread the news

Team yet to register international victory at venue, with swing-friendly conditions expected to test batters in series opener

Chandigarh: India will begin their New Zealand tour with the first T20 International at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday, i.e. October 22. The tour, running until December 1, comprises five T20Is, five ODIs and two Test matches.

India have never won an international match at Hagley Oval. The opening fixture will also mark the first time the Indian team plays a T20 International at the venue.

According to Cricbuzz, Hagley Oval has hosted 19 T20 matches, with teams batting second winning 10 and teams batting first winning nine. England hold the record for the highest men’s T20 International total at the venue, scoring 236 for four against New Zealand on October 20, 2025. England also holds the record for the highest successful chase, reaching 154 for three against New Zealand on November 1, 2019.

According to MetService, temperatures are expected to fall to 14-15°C as the match progresses, while the chance of rain is forecast at 0-5 per cent. Humidity is expected to rise above 70 per cent, with significant dew likely on the outfield during the second innings.

The square boundaries measure 74 metres on both sides, while straight boundaries range from 63 to 70.5 metres. The mid-wicket and cover boundaries measure 70 metres.

The pitch is expected to offer swing and lateral movement to fast bowlers during the opening six overs because of moisture and cool conditions. The surface is expected to provide true bounce for batting once the initial shine wears off. Dew could make gripping the ball difficult for fielding sides later in the evening.

All matches will be telecast on Sony Sports Network and streamed on the Sony LIV app.