New Zealand produced a composed and well-structured run chase to defeat India by seven wickets in the second ODI at Rajkot, drawing level in the three-match series. Chasing a competitive target of 285, the visitors paced the innings smartly and finished the job with more than two overs to spare.
India Recover Late to Post Fighting Total
Team India’s innings was anchored by a calm and calculated century from KL Rahul, who held the innings together after a tricky middle phase. On a surface that offered inconsistent pace, India struggled to maintain momentum once the ball softened, but Rahul’s composure ensured the hosts crossed the 280 mark.
Shubman Gill provided early fluency at the top, while the middle order failed to fully capitalise after promising starts. New Zealand’s bowlers remained disciplined through the middle overs, preventing India from breaking free.
India 1st Innings – Brief Score
| Shubman Gill | 56 (53) |
| KL Rahul | 112 (92) |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 27 (44) |
| Total | 284/7 (50 overs) |
New Zealand Bowling
| Kristian Clarke | 3/56 |
| Michael Bracewell | 1/34 |
| Kyle Jamieson | 1/70 |
Mitchell Leads Clinical Chase
New Zealand’s reply was initially cautious, with the Indian seamers extracting movement with the new ball. Harshit Rana removed Devon Conway early, while Henry Nicholls was unable to settle. At 46 for 2, the chase appeared finely balanced.
Daryl Mitchell and Will Young then combined for a decisive partnership, rotating strike efficiently and punishing loose deliveries. The pair ensured the required rate never spiralled, handling spin with confidence as the pitch eased under lights.
Young grew in assurance as the innings progressed, while Mitchell showcased excellent shot selection and game awareness to guide the chase home.
New Zealand 2nd Innings – Brief Score
| Will Young | 87 (98) |
| Daryl Mitchell | 131* (117) |
| Glenn Phillips | 32* (25) |
| Total | 286/3 (47.3 overs) |
India Bowling
| Kuldeep Yadav | 1/48 |
| Harshit Rana | 1/52 |
Top Performers
- Daryl Mitchell: Anchored the chase with an unbeaten century under pressure.
- KL Rahul: Showed composure and control in difficult batting conditions.
- Kristian Clarke: Key middle-over breakthroughs kept India in check.
With the series now level, both sides head into the decider with momentum firmly up for grabs after a high-quality contest in Rajkot.
