IND vs NZ: KL Rahul Makes History as First Indian Wicketkeeper, Surpassing MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant | Cricket News
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👉 Check Today's Deals on Amazon IndiaKL Rahul Achieves Milestone in 2nd ODI Against New Zealand
NEW DELHI: Indian cricketer KL Rahul celebrated a remarkable achievement by scoring an unbeaten century against New Zealand in the second ODI of the series at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday. With this performance, Rahul became the first Indian wicketkeeper to score an ODI hundred against New Zealand and the first Indian batter to achieve an ODI century at this venue.
Historic Century Details
Rahul reached his eighth ODI hundred in the 49th over, launching a full toss from Kyle Jamieson for a six. He completed the landmark in just 87 balls, ending the innings with a score of 112 not out, which included 11 fours and one six.
KL Rahul’s Strategy and Contribution
Batting at No. 5, Rahul began his innings cautiously, remaining scoreless off his first six balls but soon found his rhythm. Following the dismissal of Virat Kohli for 23 runs, Rahul formed a crucial partnership, adding 73 runs with Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed 27 runs. After Jadeja’s dismissal, he continued to stabilize the innings alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy, enabling India to finish at 284 for seven, setting New Zealand a target of 285.
KL Rahul’s Consistency in ODI Cricket
Rahul’s performance throughout the series has been noteworthy, demonstrating his ability to adapt to various match situations, whether rebuilding after early wickets or anchoring the innings. His ODI average of over 93 against New Zealand reflects his reliability against this formidable opposition. His pivotal role during the middle overs was evident once again on Wednesday.
Recap of the Series So Far
In the series opener at Vadodara, Rahul played a brief yet essential innings, scoring 29 off 21 balls with two fours and a six to help secure a four-wicket victory. Earlier on Wednesday, New Zealand’s captain Michael Bracewell won the toss and opted to bowl first. India leads the three-match series 1-0 following their triumph in Vadodara, with the third ODI set to take place in Indore on Sunday.
Team Changes and Injury Updates
Both teams made one change for the second ODI: New Zealand brought in left-arm spin all-rounder Jayden Lennox, while wrist spinner Adithya Ashok was omitted. India, however, had to make a change due to Washington Sundar’s rib injury from the first ODI, ruling him out for the series. Batter Ayush Badoni has been added to the squad for the remaining matches, and all-rounder Nitish Reddy replaced Sundar in the playing XI.
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