India v New Zealand 1997-1998

At Sharjah, April 20 (day/night). New Zealand won by four wickets. Toss: India. International debut: P. J. Wiseman.

Tight bowling did the suicidal tendency of the Indian top order brought New Zealand their first win of the tournament. After a bright start - 60 for nought in the 13th over - India's three most experienced batsmen all perished to a combination of atrocious running and inspired fielding. Wickets continued to fall regularly and cheaply, and 181 was insufficient even against a side with its own fallibilities. McMillan and Fleming, top scorers for New Zealand in their earlier encounter, set up victory, and raised the prospect of India- effectively the home nation - not reaching the final.

Man of the Match: C. D. McMillan.