The Raipur crowd erupted as KL Rahul unfurled his eighth ODI century, guiding India to a formidable 284/8 and handing New Zealand a daunting 285-run chase in the second match of the three-ODI series. Rahul’s sublime 112-ball 112 lit up the Naman Vijender Rao Stadium, blending finesse with firepower against a probing Kiwi attack.
India’s top-order imploded early – Gill out for 12, Sudharsan run out for 1, and Jaiswal lbw to Bracewell. Rahul walked in at No. 4 with the score reading 52/3 in the 13th over. What followed was pure artistry: crisp drives, silky flicks, and daring ramps.
Teaming up with Varma, Rahul rebuilt patiently before unleashing. The duo’s 95-run stand featured innovative strokeplay, with Rahul farming the strike expertly. Post his hundred, he fell attempting a scoop, but not before propelling India past 250. Sundar (28*) and Chahal provided the finishing touches.
New Zealand rotated their bowlers smartly – Boult swung it early, Ferguson clocked 150kph, and part-timers impressed. Yet, Rahul dominated, scoring freely off spin. His knock silenced critics questioning his white-ball form post-injury.
Series poised at 1-1, the chase promises drama. Williamson’s experience versus India’s spin duo of Kuldeep and Axar could decide. Rahul’s return to form signals ominous tidings for opponents ahead of the Champions Trophy.