Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips turned Eden Park into their personal playground, slamming identical centuries to guide New Zealand to 337/6 in the second ODI against India. The imposing target of 338 now tests the mettle of the Indian batting giants in a series poised at 1-1.
Under clear skies, New Zealand’s innings kicked off with promise but hit top gear post the second wicket. After early losses of Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell arrived at the crease and built his innings methodically. Converting starts into a landmark 118 (110 balls, 10 fours, 4 sixes), he rotated strike seamlessly with Phillips.
Phillips’ knock was a spectacle of modern white-ball batting – 135 runs from 133 balls with 12 boundaries and 5 massive sixes. Their 182-run alliance broke India’s rhythm, forcing captain Rohit Sharma to ring in frequent changes. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh found some movement but lacked penetration.
Post-partnership, quick contributions from Kane Williamson (28 off 21) and Jimmy Neesham (23 off 12) propelled the score past 330. India’s fielding, usually sharp, let them down with a couple of dropped catches and misfields. Kuldeep Yadav ended with 1/68, highlighting the bowlers’ tough day.
History suggests chasing 338 at Eden Park is feasible, but New Zealand’s attack – boasting Trent Boult’s swing, Lockie Ferguson’s express pace, and Santner’s spin – poses a serious threat. India must channel their chasing expertise from the first ODI while avoiding complacency. This clash underscores the fine margins in bilateral cricket, with the series decider looming.