New Zealand A opened their campaign annual Emerging Players cricket tournament with an 18-run loss to India in the first round of Twenty20 matches in Brisbane yesterday.
India successfully defended their total of 169 for four by limiting New Zealand A to 151 for five at University Oval.
Australian-born batsman Dean Brownlie top scored with an unbeaten 55 from 44 deliveries while Doug Bracewell added a quick fire 47 from 25 balls - including three sixes - before the run chase petered out.
New Zealand A face a doubleheader today starting with the Australian Institute of Sport, who were beaten by South Africa by five wickets.
They then play South Africa who meet India in their early match.
