Virat Kohli Shines Again as India Edges Past New Zealand in Thrilling ODI
India's Narrow Victory in the ODI Opener
Vadodara: In a gripping encounter, Virat Kohli showcased his brilliance with a 93-run knock off 91 balls, while captain Shubman Gill contributed 56 runs, leading India to a tense four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first ODI of their three-match series on Sunday.
Chasing a target of 301, India appeared to be in a strong position until Kohli's dismissal in the 40th over. The team ultimately reached 306 for six in 49 overs, but not without a scare.
Kohli fell just short of his 54th ODI century, leaving India needing 67 runs from 66 balls with seven wickets still in hand. Soon after, Ravindra Jadeja (4) and Shreyas Iyer (49) were dismissed, giving New Zealand a glimmer of hope.
KL Rahul (29 not out) and Harshit Rana (29) steadied the ship with a crucial partnership of 37 runs, while Washington Sundar (7 not out) helped secure the win, aided by a few unexpected dropped catches from the Kiwis.
Kyle Jamieson (4/41) was instrumental in bringing New Zealand back into contention, dismissing Kohli and Iyer, and taking Jadeja's wicket as well.
Despite missing out on a century, Kohli made history by becoming the fastest player to reach 28,000 runs in international cricket, now only behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.
New Zealand set a competitive total of 300/8, but with Kohli in such exceptional form, it proved insufficient, especially given their weakened bowling lineup.
Kohli's aggressive approach was evident as he dominated the New Zealand bowlers from the outset, hitting a series of boundaries.
He formed a solid partnership of 118 runs off 102 balls with Gill, although the duo faced a brief period without boundaries. Gill eventually hit a boundary to break the drought.
The Indian captain took time to settle in, achieving his 16th ODI half-century, but Gill struggled with cramps and required on-field treatment.
Gill's innings ended at 56 runs off 71 balls, featuring three fours and two sixes, showcasing his return to form after missing previous matches.
Rohit Sharma (26) began the chase with some aggressive shots, but was dismissed in the ninth over after a miscommunication with the bat.
Earlier, Daryl Mitchell's impressive half-century helped New Zealand reach 300 runs, with Mitchell scoring 84 off 71 balls, despite a middle-order collapse.
Mitchell's innings included five fours and three sixes, providing crucial support after a strong start from openers Devon Conway (56) and Henry Nicholls (62), who put on 117 runs for the first wicket.