The second One-Day International between India and New Zealand at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot delivered one of the most thrilling run-chases of the season on January 14, 2026. In front of passionate home crowds, India posted a competitive total — only for New Zealand’s middle order to respond in emphatic fashion. In a match marked by attacking batting, gritty partnerships and a historic chase, Daryl Mitchell’s unbeaten 131 ultimately became the defining moment.
India Sets a Strong Target
After winning the toss, New Zealand chose to bowl first, bringing early pressure on India’s batting lineup. The hosts recovered from a slow start with a crucial innings from KL Rahul, whose unbeaten 112 anchored the Indian total. Rahul’s composed batting, mixed with aggressive strokeplay down the order, helped India reach 284/7 in their 50 overs a challenging total on a pitch that offered variable bounce and some assistance to bowlers.
Alongside Rahul, Shubman Gill contributed with a steady 56, but it was Rahul’s century that stood out as the backbone of India’s innings. Despite decent bowling spells from New Zealand, India’s depth in batting ensured they had enough runs on the board to defend comfortably.
New Zealand’s Record Run Chase
Chasing 285, New Zealand began shakily, losing two early wickets as the run chase got off to a cautious start. At 46/2, they looked under pressure, with India’s bowlers controlling the initial phase. But that’s when the game turned on its head.
Daryl Mitchell walked in with calm intent. He was joined by Will Young, and the pair forged a breathtaking 162-run partnership that shifted momentum entirely. Playing with smart shot selection and good communication, the duo kept the required run rate under control while punishing loose deliveries. Young’s 87 laid a solid foundation, but Mitchell’s masterclass in pacing a chase made all the difference.
By the time the partnership was broken, New Zealand had taken control, leaving Mitchell to finish the chase in style. With calculated aggression and precise timing, he led New Zealand to victory with 15 deliveries to spare, finishing unbeaten on 131 off 117 balls and sealing the highest successful ODI chase by New Zealand in India.
Match Turning Points
Several moments swayed the contest:
- The Mitchell-Young Partnership: After early losses, the duo steadied New Zealand’s innings, keeping them in contention and steadily chipping away at the target.
- India’s Missed Chances: A few missed opportunities in the field and dropped catches allowed New Zealand batters to survive and build momentum.
- Pressure on Indian Bowlers: While the Indian attack struck early, they couldn’t break the crucial partnership in the middle overs, which ultimately cost them the match.
What This Win Means
With this victory, New Zealand leveled the three-match ODI series 1-1, setting up an exciting decider in Indore. The result also ended India’s recent dominance in head-to-head ODIs against the Kiwis at home. For New Zealand, this win was more than just a numbers game, it was a statement performance. The chase will be remembered for its composure under pressure and for Mitchell’s match-winning innings that showcased both skill and temperament.
Final Thoughts
Cricket fans were treated to a high-quality contest that showcased both teams’ batting depth. While India’s total was formidable, New Zealand’s resilience and strategic chase highlighted the unpredictable beauty of ODI cricket. As both teams look ahead to the series decider, this match will be recalled as one where one player’s brilliance and partnership resilience turned the tide.
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