Michael Bracewell Reflects on New Zealand's Narrow Loss to India in First ODI

New Zealand's Captain Analyzes First ODI Defeat

Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], January 11: Following New Zealand's loss to India in the opening ODI, captain Michael Bracewell expressed pride in his team's performance, noting that they managed to push the world's top-ranked team to the final over.

Bracewell suggested that scoring between 320 and 330 runs could have altered the outcome. He commended his batting lineup, highlighting their talent and the significance of crucial moments during the match.

India triumphed over New Zealand by four wickets in Vadodara on Sunday. The Indian side lost some momentum after Virat Kohli was dismissed for 93 runs, but KL Rahul's composed innings of 29 not out off 21 balls secured the win in the penultimate over.

“We can take pride in our performance. Pushing the number one team to the last over is commendable. If we had managed to score 320-330, it might have made a difference. I wish we could have bowled 15 overs, as he was exceptional. Our batting unit has some outstanding players, and if we had added a few more runs, the result could have been different. We often discuss pivotal moments in the field, and if we had capitalized on those, the outcome might have changed,” Bracewell stated.

India executed a thrilling chase, reaching 306 runs in the second last over, with Rahul and Washington Sundar forming a crucial partnership that led to their victory.

Kyle Jamieson stood out for New Zealand, taking three wickets. He made a significant impact by dismissing Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shreyas Iyer within just seven balls, bringing New Zealand back into contention.

With Washington sidelined due to injury, Harshit was brought in and contributed effectively, relieving some pressure off Rahul.

Brief score: New Zealand 300/8 in 50 overs (Daryl Mitchell 84, Henry Nicholls 62; Mohammed Siraj 2/40) vs India 306/6 in 49 overs (Virat Kohli 93, Shubman Gill 56; Kyle Jamieson 4/41).