New Zealand outclassed India by seven wickets in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. After being invited to bat first, India posted 284 for 7 in 50 overs, powered by a superb unbeaten century from KL Rahul and a blazing half-century by Shubman Gill.
Kris Clarke, who finished with figures of 3/42 in 8 overs, was the most successful bowler for New Zealand, while Michael Bracewell was the most economical, conceding just 34 runs in his 10 overs and taking one wicket.
In reply, Daryl Mitchell and Will Young produced a brilliant batting effort to guide New Zealand to their highest successful ODI run chase in India, snapping an eight-match losing streak against the hosts. Their partnership turned the match on its head and handed New Zealand a famous win in Rajkot.
India’s Strong Start With Bat on a Tricky Pitch
India began well after winning the toss, with Shubman Gill looking fluent during his knock of 56 off 53 balls. Rohit Sharma provided early momentum but struggled to rotate the strike and eventually fell trying to force the pace.
Gill and Virat Kohli remained in control initially, even as debutant spinner Jayden Lennox bowled tightly. The pitch slowed further during the middle overs, making stroke-making difficult. Kohli and Shreyas Iyer both fell while trying to break the shackles, as New Zealand tightened their grip.
The contrast in scoring was clear. The first 100 balls produced nearly a run a ball, but the next 100 deliveries brought very few boundaries. Only Rahul managed to counter the conditions with confidence.
Rahul Holds Innings Together With Classy Century
KL Rahul anchored India’s innings with a composed 112 off 92 balls. He scored freely despite the sluggish surface and played innovative shots, including a reverse sweep, which stood out in an innings where India struggled against spin.
Rahul added 169 runs during his time at the crease and carried the innings while wickets fell around him. Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy chipped in, but India lacked the late acceleration needed to push past 300. They eventually finished on 284, which looked competitive given the afternoon conditions.
New Zealand Stumble Early But Fight Back Strongly
India’s fast bowlers made an immediate impact under lights. Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna extracted movement with the new ball and reduced New Zealand to 46 for 2. Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls both departed early, giving India a strong start while defending.
However, the momentum shifted once Daryl Mitchell attacked Kuldeep Yadav soon after his introduction. With one bold stroke, Mitchell changed the tone of the chase and began transferring pressure back onto the bowlers.
Pitch Eases, and Mitchell–Young Take Control
As the evening progressed, the pitch quickened despite the absence of dew. Batting became noticeably easier, and Mitchell and Young settled into a commanding partnership of 162 runs.
Mitchell played with authority and confidence, while Young grew in assurance after a cautious start. Kuldeep endured a difficult spell and conceded heavily, finishing with 82 runs. Although he dismissed Young for 87, the damage had already been done.
Once spin lost its bite, New Zealand cruised. The returning pacers failed to find movement with the older ball, allowing Mitchell to play freely. He went on to register his eighth ODI century, a remarkable achievement given his role as a middle-order batter.
New Zealand Finish Comfortably as Conditions Decide Contest
With Glenn Phillips joining the charge late, the required run rate never climbed beyond manageable levels. Dropped chances and a missed run-out further hurt India’s hopes, though the target was already well within reach by then.
New Zealand crossed the line comfortably, completing the first successful chase at Rajkot’s new stadium and setting up a high-stakes decider in Indore.