Vadodara, January 11: India made a strong start to the ODI series by defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets in the first ODI at the BCA Stadium. Chasing a target of 301, India reached 306/6 in 49 overs, with KL Rahul finishing the match in style.
Kohli Leads the Chase with a Brilliant Knock
India’s chase was built around a classy innings from Virat Kohli, who scored 93 runs off 91 balls. Kohli batted with control and confidence, keeping the scoreboard moving and handling the pressure well in the middle overs.
He was well supported by Shubman Gill (56) and Shreyas Iyer (49), who ensured India stayed close to the required run rate.
Late Drama, Calm Finish by KL Rahul
After a few quick wickets towards the end, the match briefly tilted towards New Zealand. However, KL Rahul stayed calm and played a composed unbeaten knock of 29 off 21 balls. He sealed the win with a six and two boundaries in the final over, drawing loud cheers from the Vadodara crowd.
Young pacer Harshit Rana also played a key cameo, scoring 29 runs, which helped India cross the line comfortably.
New Zealand Post Competitive Total
Batting first, New Zealand posted a fighting total of 300/8 in 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell top-scored with 84 runs, while Henry Nicholls and Devon Conway added solid half-centuries.
For India, Kyle Jamieson was the standout bowler despite the loss, picking up 4 wickets, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Indian chase.
India Go 1–0 Up in the Series
With this win, India take a 1–0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The team will take confidence from this performance, especially the calm batting under pressure.
The second ODI will be played in Rajkot, where New Zealand will look to bounce back and level the series, while India aim to extend their lead.
