How Did KL Rahul's Unbeaten 112 Propel India to 284/7 Against NZ?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating match, KL Rahul's stunning unbeaten century helped India set a challenging total of 284/7 against New Zealand. Despite early setbacks, Rahul showcased his talent, ensuring a competitive score at a venue that favors teams batting first. Will this performance lead India to victory?
Key Takeaways
- KL Rahul's unbeaten century was pivotal for India's total.
- The partnership between Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja was crucial in stabilizing the innings.
- New Zealand's decision to bowl first had mixed results.
- India's total of 284 sets a competitive target for New Zealand.
- The match highlights the unpredictability of ODI cricket.
Rajkot, Jan 14 (NationPress) Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul delivered an outstanding performance, scoring an unbeaten 112 runs off 92 deliveries as India reached a total of 284/7 in the second ODI against New Zealand at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday.
After New Zealand's skipper Michael Bracewell chose to bowl first, India’s openers faced a challenging new-ball spell from Kyle Jamieson, ending the first Power-play at 57 without loss. While Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli struggled, Shubman Gill contributed significantly with a rapid half-century off 47 balls.
However, Gill's dismissal by Jamieson saw India falter from 99/1 to 118/4 on a tricky pitch. Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja steadied the innings with a cautious 73-run partnership for the fifth wicket before Rahul accelerated, marking his eighth ODI century with a total of 11 fours and a six. His efforts ensured India set a competitive total at a venue where previous ODIs had favored teams batting first.
New Zealand’s decision to bowl first initially bore fruit, as Jamieson delivered consecutive maidens before Gill and Rohit struck 11 boundaries in the first 12 overs. Rohit fell for 24, caught at deep cover off a delivery from Kristian Clarke.
Gill appeared more confident than in his previous outing, reaching his 18th ODI fifty but was caught out for 56 after a pull shot went awry, igniting a collapse in which Shreyas Iyer and Kohli followed shortly after.
Rahul then took charge, showcasing exquisite drives and pulls, although he lost Jadeja when Bracewell executed a sharp caught-and-bowled at 27.
As the pitch slowed and runs became harder to accumulate, Rahul took control and accelerated after the second drinks break, achieving his fifty through a fortunate edge off Jamieson and even reverse-sweeping Bracewell for another boundary.
Nitish Kumar Reddy added 20 runs before falling to mid-wicket off Zak Foulkes, while debutant spinner Jayden Lennox captured his first international wicket by dismissing Harshit Rana.
Rahul continued to score freely, reaching his century by striking a full toss from Jamieson over long-on for six, and adding two more boundaries from Foulkes, lifting India past 280, setting a challenging target for New Zealand under lights.
Brief scores:
India 284/7 in 50 overs (KL Rahul 112 not out, Shubman Gill 56; Kristian Clarke 3-56, Michael Bracewell 1-34) against New Zealand.
Point of View
KL Rahul's performance underscores his importance to the Indian cricket team. His ability to stabilize the innings during a collapse reflects both his skill and composure. This match not only highlights individual brilliance but also sets the stage for a thrilling contest as India seeks to capitalize on their strong total.
NationPress
14/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was KL Rahul's score in the second ODI against New Zealand?
KL Rahul scored an unbeaten 112 runs off 92 balls.
Where was the second ODI played?
The second ODI was played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
What was India's total score in the match?
India posted a total of 284 runs for the loss of 7 wickets.
Who were the key performers for India in this match?
KL Rahul and Shubman Gill were the key performers, with Rahul scoring 112 not out and Gill contributing 56.
How did New Zealand perform in the match?
New Zealand's bowling attack, led by Kristian Clarke, took crucial wickets but faced challenges against India's batting.
