RAJKOT — Daryl Mitchell produced a masterclass in controlled aggression, scoring a magnificent unbeaten century to guide New Zealand to a commanding seven-wicket victory over India in the second ODI at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium. The win levels the three-match series at 1-1, setting up a tantalizing decider in Indore.
Chasing a formidable target of 350, the Black Caps, led by Mitchell's career-best 129* and a blistering 94 from captain Tom Latham, chased down the total with 17 balls to spare. The performance was a stunning reply to India's 349/8, built on a scintillating 138 from Shubman Gill and a rapid 65 from captain Rohit Sharma. The result snapped India's impressive home ODI winning streak and showcased New Zealand's resilience after a heavy defeat in the first match.
A Chase Built on Partnership and Power
The foundation of New Zealand's successful pursuit was laid by a monumental 149-run partnership for the third wicket between Mitchell and Latham. Coming together after the early loss of Finn Allen and the steadying influence of Henry Nicholls (42), the duo systematically dismantled the Indian bowling attack. Latham, in particular, was severe on the spinners, striking eight fours and three sixes in his 99-ball knock. His dismissal, six runs short of a century, brought a momentary pause, but Mitchell ensured there would be no collapse.
Mitchell’s innings was a study in calculated power-hitting. He targeted the straight boundaries with remarkable consistency and was equally adept at finding gaps in the field. His century, brought up with a single off Shardul Thakur, came off just 97 balls and included eight fours and four sixes. Speaking after the match, a composed Mitchell reflected on his approach: "It was nice to build some partnerships. Tom Latham was outstanding at the other end. We knew the surface was good, and we just tried to take it deep and back our skills."
India's Innings: Gill Shines, but Death Bowling Falters
Earlier, after being put in to bat, India's innings was a tale of two halves. Rohit Sharma provided a fiery start, racing to a 43-ball 65, while Shubman Gill anchored the innings with a sublime 138 off 139 deliveries. Gill's innings was a blend of elegance and power, featuring 11 fours and five sixes. A late flourish from Hardik Pandya (15) and Washington Sundar (14*) pushed India to a seemingly imposing total of 349/8.
However, the final ten overs exposed concerns for the home side. Despite the high score, New Zealand's bowlers, led by the experienced Lockie Ferguson (3/59) and the economical Mitchell Santner (1/43 in 10 overs), executed a better plan at the death. The Black Caps conceded 111 runs in the last 10 overs, but crucially took regular wickets, preventing a final onslaught that could have taken the target beyond 360. Captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged this shortfall: "We fell 20-30 runs short. The way we were going, we could have got 375-380. The bowling was not up to the mark, and we didn't field well either."
Key Moments in the Indian Innings:
- Explosive Start: The Rohit Sharma-Shubman Gill partnership of 72 runs in just 10.5 overs set a perfect platform.
- Gill's Mastery: Gill's century, his fourth in ODIs, was marked by exquisite drives and powerful pulls, showcasing his complete range.
- Middle-Order Stutter: Virat Kohli (5) and Ishan Kishan (6) fell cheaply, momentarily slowing the momentum.
- Death Overs: While runs came, the loss of Suryakumar Yadav (14) and Gill in quick succession prevented a true late carnage.
New Zealand's Bowling and Fielding Prowess
The difference between the two sides was perhaps most evident in the field. New Zealand were sharp, taking several difficult catches, including a spectacular diving effort by Glenn Phillips to dismiss Rohit Sharma. In contrast, India put down crucial chances; a missed run-out opportunity against Mitchell when he was on 60 proved particularly costly. The Kiwi bowlers also adapted better as the dew set in during the evening, making bowling second increasingly difficult.
Tom Latham, standing in as captain for the injured Kane Williamson, praised his team's all-round effort. "It was a complete performance from us. The way the boys bowled up front and then through the middle to restrict them to under 350 on that surface was brilliant. And then the partnerships with the bat were outstanding. Daryl played an incredible knock, and it was great to contribute at the other end." The decision to bring in left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner for the seamer-friendly conditions in Hyderabad paid off handsomely, as he provided vital control.
Series Poised for a Thrilling Finale
With the series now level at 1-1, all eyes move to the Holkar Stadium in Indore for the final match. The venue is known for its high-scoring pitches, promising another run-fest. India will be keen to address their death bowling and fielding lapses, while New Zealand will be buoyed by the confidence of a record chase against the hosts. The return of key players like Kane Williamson for New Zealand remains a question, but the current squad has shown immense character.
The Rajkot match served as a potent reminder of New Zealand's threat in white-ball cricket, especially in ICC World Cup year. Their ability to chase down a massive target under pressure, without their regular captain, sends a strong message to the cricketing world. For India, the defeat, while a setback, provides valuable lessons in closing out innings and executing under scoreboard pressure.
As both teams travel to Indore, the stage is set for a classic series decider. The momentum may have shifted to the Black Caps, but an Indian team at home is never to be underestimated. The final ODI promises to be a fitting climax to a hard-fought contest between two of the world's premier one-day sides.