New Zealand beat India 2-1 in the T20 series
India savoured a historic Test and ODI bilateral series win in Australia before recording their biggest ODI series win on New Zealand soil.
A first ever T20 series win would have been an icing on the cake but the hosts held their nerves to pull off a thrilling four-run victory on Sunday.
And New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was mightly pleased with his boys after a 4-1 drubbing in the ODI series at the hands of the visitors.
Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Williamson said his team will take a lot of confidence from the T20 triumph against India into the home series against Bangladesh.
"Brilliant high-scoring game, a great advertisement for T20 cricket. The first performance was our best, there were learnings in the second game. Both teams put in strong performances tonight, we did slightly better," said Williamson.
"We knew India would come back strong. For it to go to the last couple of balls with the series on the line, it was a great series to be a part of. We go to the ODIs against Bangladesh - we travel, train and play, so that's the (hectic) nature of international cricket I suppose," he added.
Opener and man of the match Colin Munro said it was anybody's game with India needing 16 off the final over.
"It was touch and go there until the final minute. India - you get one good batsman, another one comes along. The boys did a really good job of finishing off the really good Indian batsmen," said Munro.
On his 72 off 40 balls, he added: "I didn't really focus on trying to do anything different, tried to put pressure back on the bowlers. Just came out nice and free, had a bit of luck, which you certainly need in this match," he added.
Tim Seifert, who was awarded the Man of the Series for scoring 139 runs from three games, also enjoyed the series win and the opportunity to bat with Munro.
"Great to have a performance like that, but it's great to get a victory, particularly a last-minute one like that. Great to have batted with Colin Munro.
"It's awesome in my hometown, that the crowd have come out in full support - hopefully they do so for the Super Smash final as well," Seifert said.
New Zealand will next host Bangladesh in three ODIs and three Tests from February 13 to March 20.
(With inputs from PTI)
