Source NDTV sport
Vadodara, January 11, 2026 — In a high-octane series opener at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara, India secured a hard-fought 4-wicket victory over New Zealand to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The match featured a vintage masterclass from Virat Kohli, a mid-innings scare orchestrated by Kyle Jamieson, and a composed finishing act by KL Rahul.
Kohli Anchors the Chase, Just Misses Century
Chasing a competitive target of 301, India’s innings was built around a brilliant 93 off 91 balls by Virat Kohli. The “Chase Master” looked in sublime touch, hitting eight boundaries and a six, appearing well on his way to his 85th international century.
However, the Vadodara crowd was stunned into silence when Kohli fell just seven runs short of the milestone, caught at mid-off while trying to loft Kyle Jamieson. His dismissal triggered a sudden collapse, as India slipped from a comfortable 234/2 to 242/5 in a matter of overs.
New Zealand’s Fightback
Earlier in the day, New Zealand posted 300/8 after being put into bat. The Kiwis got off to a flyer with Devon Conway (56) and Henry Nicholls (62) putting on a 117-run opening stand. India clawed back through Harshit Rana (2/65), who removed both openers in quick succession. Daryl Mitchell then anchored the middle order with a gritty 84, ensuring the visitors reached a formidable total.
Jamieson was the pick of the bowlers for the Blackcaps, finishing with figures of 4/41, nearly turning the tide of the game during the death overs by dismissing Shreyas Iyer (49) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) to keep the contest on a knife-edge.
KL Rahul’s Ice-Cool Finish
With the game hanging in the balance and the tail exposed, KL Rahul stepped up as the finisher. Showing immense composure under pressure, Rahul remained unbeaten on 29 off 21 balls.
The penultimate over proved decisive. Facing Kristian Clarke, Rahul unleashed a flurry of strokes:
A delicate lap shot for four.
A piercing cover drive for another boundary.
A massive six to finish the game with an over to spare.
India reached 306/6 in 49 overs, sealing a victory that had everything from world-record milestones to edge-of-the-seat drama.
Match Summary
Team Score Top Performers
New Zealand 300/8 (50) Daryl Mitchell (84), Henry Nicholls (62)
India 306/6 (49) Virat Kohli (93), Shubman Gill (56), KL Rahul (29*)
Result India won by 4 wickets
The two teams will now head to Rajkot for the second ODI on Wednesday, January 14.
