KL Rahul Shines with Century as India Sets Target Against New Zealand
KL Rahul's Stellar Performance in Rajkot
At the packed Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, fans anticipated a stellar performance from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the second ODI against New Zealand. However, it was KL Rahul who stole the spotlight with his bat. The wicketkeeper-batsman took charge for the home team when both star players failed to convert their promising starts into significant scores. Rahul achieved his eighth ODI century, while nearly all other Indian batsmen, apart from Shubman Gill, struggled to surpass the 30-run mark.
Record-Breaking Century
With this century, Rahul surpassed the record of former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin for the most centuries in the 50-over format. Azharuddin managed only seven centuries in his 334 ODI matches, while Rahul accomplished this feat in just his 93rd ODI, stepping up during a challenging phase for the team. He also became the first Indian to score a century at this venue, breaking Shikhar Dhawan's previous record of being dismissed for 90 runs.
India Sets Competitive Target
Thanks to Rahul's remarkable innings, India posted a total of 284 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their 50 overs. He scored an unbeaten 112 runs off just 92 balls, hitting 11 fours and a six after coming to bat in the 22nd over. The pitch offered some turn during the middle overs, making it challenging for Rahul to settle in. Virat Kohli, who also batted, was dismissed for 23 runs. Nevertheless, Rahul persevered and built a crucial partnership of 73 runs for the fifth wicket with Ravindra Jadeja, before launching an attack on the New Zealand bowlers in the death overs.
India's Bowling Challenge Ahead
KL Rahul, the crisis man for Team India, ensured that they set a respectable score, which seemed daunting at one point against New Zealand's bowling attack. To secure the series victory, India will need to bowl effectively to defend the target of 285 runs. The average first-innings score at this ground is 322, placing New Zealand in a favorable position. However, they will require a player capable of replicating KL Rahul's innings to chase down the target successfully.