Naman Dhir makes his mark on maiden overseas tour, wins India's Impact Player medal

Naman Dhir (Pic credit: BCCI)

NEW DELHI: Naman Dhir made a memorable start to his international career overseas, earning the Impact Player of the Series medal after playing a key role in India's 3-2 T20I series victory against New Zealand.The 26-year-old all-rounder was presented with the medal in the dressing room after the fifth and final T20I in Hamilton on Sunday. The BCCI shared a video on social media showing India's strength and conditioning coach Adrian Le Roux handing Dhir the recognition following his impressive performances on his maiden overseas tour.

"The one who stepped onto the plate and took responsibility for the team. A stellar maiden overseas tour, capped off with the Impact Player of the Series medal for Naman Dhir," the BCCI wrote in a post on X.Dhir was delighted with the recognition, particularly after being part of a team that secured an overseas series triumph."First of all, thank you Adrian for giving me this medal. I really enjoyed it, especially it is quite satisfying that we won the overseas series. It's my first overseas tour and I'm getting this medal," Dhir said after receiving the award.

Dhir delivers with the bat in maiden overseas assignment

Dhir's contribution with the bat was a significant factor in India's success.

He finished the five-match series with 138 runs, consistently providing the team with quick runs in the middle order.He announced his arrival in the opening T20I with an unbeaten 42 off just 15 deliveries, giving India's batting line-up a late boost. He followed it up with 31 off 17 balls in the second match, maintaining his impact with another brisk innings.Although he could not make a substantial contribution in the third T20I, Dhir struck the winning boundary as India secured a 3-0 lead and sealed the series with two matches still to play.He continued his useful run in the fourth game, scoring 28 off 13 deliveries, before signing off with 33 off 23 balls in the final T20I. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate and contribute in pressure situations made him a valuable option in India's middle order.

While Dhir bowled only two overs during the series and did not claim a wicket, he also contributed in the field. His performances across departments reflected the role he has been building in India's white-ball setup.

India turn focus to ODI series after T20I triumph

Dhir made his T20I debut against West Indies in Lucknow last month and has quickly made an impression. He has now featured in 10 T20Is and three ODIs for India. An aggressive middle-order batter who can also offer part-time spin, he has strengthened his case for a place in the side's plans across formats.India, meanwhile, ended the T20I series with a 3-2 victory despite losing the final two matches after winning the first three.With the T20I assignment completed, India will now turn their attention to the ODI leg of the tour. The first match against New Zealand is scheduled to be played in Auckland on Wednesday.