The Indian cricket team kicked off the ODI series on a high note, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a match that had fans on the edge of their seats. Virat Kohli’s masterful 95 set up the chase, though he missed out on a well-deserved ton.
New Zealand’s innings was a tale of partnerships thwarted by sharp Indian fielding and timely breakthroughs. After a promising start, the Kiwis lost momentum as Sundar’s spin dismantled their middle order. Mitchell’s 66 provided some resistance, but India limited them to 272/8.
In pursuit, India navigated early turbulence with Rahul steadying the ship before Kohli took charge. The former captain’s innings was a clinic in ODI batting – patient yet punishing. Dismissed just short of three figures, he left it to Iyer and the lower order to finish the job, which they did with composure.
This result underscores India’s depth and adaptability in white-ball cricket. As the series progresses, New Zealand faces an uphill task to level the scores.