Rajkot — A commanding unbeaten century from Daryl Mitchell guided New Zealand to a convincing seven-wicket victory over India in the second One-Day International, leveling the three-match series 1-1 at Rajkot.
Chasing a competitive target of 285, New Zealand reached the total in 47.3 overs, losing just three wickets. Mitchell played the anchor role to perfection, scoring 131 runs, while Will Young provided strong support with an impressive 87, as the duo stitched together a match-defining 162-run partnership.
Earlier, India posted 284 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs after opting to bat first. The hosts made a steady start but lost momentum in the middle overs as New Zealand’s spinners tightened the grip. KL Rahul anchored the innings with a well-crafted century, building crucial partnerships with Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy to take India to a respectable total. For New Zealand, Michael Bracewell and debutant Jayden Lennox were the standout bowlers.
Despite missing key players including Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, and Tom Latham, New Zealand showed composure in the chase. After early setbacks with Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls, Mitchell took control, absorbing pressure and later accelerating once set. A quick cameo by Glenn Phillips ensured there were no late hiccups.
India’s bowlers made early inroads, but the lack of breakthroughs in the middle overs proved costly. Spinners, particularly Kuldeep Yadav, struggled to contain Mitchell, who capitalized after being dropped in the deep.
Mitchell was deservedly named Player of the Match, calling it an honor to contribute to a rare ODI win in India. New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell praised the team’s adaptability, while Indian skipper Shubman Gill admitted missed chances and middle-overs bowling hurt the hosts.
The series now heads to a thrilling decider in Indore on January 18, with New Zealand eyeing a historic first bilateral ODI series win in India.