New Zealand Levels Series in Thrilling Rajkot ODI
India have halted New Zealand’s nine-match winning streak and now head to Rajkot with a chance to seal the series. New Zealand, though, can take heart: they dragged India all the way to the 99th over in the previous game, and if they can find 20 more runs from somewhere they will still threaten a full-strength India even with their inexperienced side.
Mitchell’s Masterclass Guides New Zealand
The seasoned batter, Daryl Mitchell, was the highlight of New Zealand‘s innings, leading his team from the front with a strategic yet aggressive 117-ball innings. Alongside Will Young, who scored 87, they constructed a formidable partnership that dismantled India’s bowling attack, securing victory with 15 balls to spare. Mitchell Hay contributed a quickfire 32 not out, sealing the win and earning Mitchell the Player of the Match recognition.
Indian Bowling and Strategic Choices
India bowled well to keep New Zealand to a competitive total in the earlier game, but will want to tidy up after a wobble following Kohli’s dismissal. With Washington Sundar injured, Ayush Badoni has been called up as his replacement; Nitish Kumar Reddy is already in the squad and conditions will determine who plays. There is also talk that Arshdeep Singh could replace Prasidh Krishna depending on pitch and toss.
India: WWLWW
New Zealand: LWWWW
Pre-Match Scenarios and Pitch Influence
Heading into the Rajkot clash, India had its eyes set on sealing the series with an early win. However, Rajkot’s condition and toss results had their roles to play. Teams are yet to win chasing on this pitch, emphasizing the importance of setting a strong total when batting first. This strategy will be pivotal for both sides when they meet again.
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell (capt), Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Zak Foulkes, Adithya Ashok/Jayden Lennox.
India: Shubman Gill (capt), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy/Ayush Badoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj.
Spotlight: Kohli and Mitchell
Virat Kohli remains a key figure in India’s offensive lineup, showing form and experience. In contrast, Mitchell has proven his value for New Zealand, bringing vast experience and match-winning capabilities. Reports suggest India’s management is keen on leveraging Kohli’s expertise in crunch situations, particularly targeting New Zealand’s weaker middle-order bowling.
Squad Dynamics and Injury Updates
With Washington Sundar out due to injury, Ayush Badoni has been brought into the Indian squad, adding versatility with his all-rounder abilities. Nitish Kumar Reddy remains an option, pending final selection adjustments. Meanwhile, Jayden Lennox and Adithya Ashok eye opportunities to strengthen New Zealand’s bowling.
Rajkot has pleasant weather. The small sample at this venue shows no side has chased successfully there yet; winning the toss and batting first has been useful. Teams are becoming used to moderate dew, so the toss should be considered but not decisive if innings are maximised.
Final Match at Indore: What’s at Stake?
If India can be close to their best they can seal the series even if they lose the toss. New Zealand will look to repeat the pressure they created earlier and make the final match a true decider.
Catch the series finale and all updates on ESPNcricinfo.
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