"Conceded 20-25 runs extra.."- Hardik Pandya on why India lost 1st T20I vs NZ

The Indian skipper, Hardik Pandya, admitted that they conceded 20–25 runs extra, which cost them the game in the end. Batting first, New Zealand looked rusty for most of their inning. They were at 149/6 until the 19th over of the inning.

But the 20th over by Arshdeep Singh turned out to be a game-changer and became the difference between the two teams. The left-arm pacer gave away 27 runs in that over, including three sixes and a four, which gave New Zealand a brilliant finish.

They ended up at 176/6 in their first inning. That's what Hardik said in the post-match presentation. He also pointed out that the way the ball turned in the game was quite surprising, but it was clearly New Zealand who played better cricket. He also stated that the turn surprised both teams.

Hardik said, "Somehow we pulled it back and were in the game till Surya and myself were batting. On hindsight, I don’t think this wicket was 177, we were with the ball and conceded 20-25 runs. It is a young group and we will only learn from this."

Devon Conway scored 52 off 35 to give the Kiwis a good start, but it was the cameo from Daryl Mitchell that gave them a good finish. He scored an unbeaten 59 off 30 with three fours and five sixes. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav (47 off 35) and Washington Sundar (50 off 28) tried hard.

But they couldn't lead India over the line. Sunday showcased brilliant all-round skills. In the first inning, he took 2/22 of his four overs and took the first two wickets of New Zealand. Hardik also lauded the left-hander and said that Sundar's all-round skills gave the team a lot of confidence and will help going forward.