India secured a 2-1 victory over New Zealand in a bilateral esports Test Series at Armageddon Expo 2026 in Auckland, with Dr Abirami Iyer making history as the first Indian woman to win an international eFootball series abroad.
The result marked a significant moment for Indian esports, as the Indian contingent competed across eFootball and Clash Royale. The series also coincided with celebrations marking 100 years of sporting unity between India and New Zealand.
Chinmay Sahoo and Abirami Iyer Secure India's Victory
India took the lead through Chinmay Sahoo, who defeated New Zealand's Josh 3-1 in the men's eFootball console category. Dr Abirami Iyer then sealed the series with a commanding 3-0 win against Janetteski in women's eFootball.
However, India's Shagun Srivastava lost 0-3 to New Zealand's Lokkie in the women's Clash Royale contest. Despite that defeat, the two wins in eFootball ensured India finished the series ahead 2-1.
Dr Abirami Iyer Breaks New Ground
Beyond the team result, Iyer's performance stood out for its historic significance. Balancing her medical profession with competitive gaming, she described representing India internationally as an unforgettable milestone.
She highlighted discipline, perseverance and self-belief as important lessons from her esports journey. Her achievement also challenged stereotypes surrounding women in competitive gaming, demonstrating that esports can coexist with demanding professional careers.
India and New Zealand Move Towards Esports Cooperation
The Auckland series formed part of the celebrations marking a century of sporting ties between India and New Zealand. Alongside the competition, the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) and New Zealand Esports Federation Incorporated (NZ Esports) drafted a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two esports communities.
The proposed framework focuses on knowledge exchange, shared learning and collaborative development. The initiative could help create opportunities for closer engagement between the two countries' esports ecosystems.
India's 2-1 victory therefore delivered more than a series win: it highlighted Indian players on an international stage while bringing renewed attention to women's participation and cross-border cooperation in esports.