KL Rahul delivered a historic and composed performance in the second One Day International between India and New Zealand, held at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, on Wednesday.
His unbeaten century not only rescued India from a difficult position but also placed him in the record books as the first Indian wicketkeeper-batter to score an ODI hundred against New Zealand.
India were under pressure early in their innings after losing wickets at regular intervals on a pitch that offered assistance to the bowlers.
Shot-making was challenging, and partnerships were difficult to build as New Zealand’s bowlers maintained tight lines and consistent movement.
Walking in at No. 5, KL Rahul was tasked with stabilising the innings after early setbacks.
He began cautiously, scoring no runs from his first six deliveries as he assessed the conditions and the bowling attack.
The situation became more challenging when Virat Kohli was dismissed for 23, leaving India in need of a steady presence at the crease.
Rahul responded with patience and discipline, focusing on strike rotation and selective boundary options rather than forcing shots.
His innings was built on balance.
Rahul combined defensive solidity with controlled aggression, ensuring India did not collapse further while gradually rebuilding momentum.
A key phase of the innings came during his 73-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja.
Although Jadeja contributed 27 runs, the stand proved vital in stabilising the innings and allowing Rahul to settle into a rhythm.
As the innings progressed, Nitish Kumar Reddy provided valuable support, enabling Rahul to continue anchoring the innings without unnecessary risks.
Rahul’s ability to read the game and adapt to the conditions stood out throughout this phase.
He reached his century in 87 balls, marking one of his finest ODI performances under pressure.
Rahul eventually finished unbeaten on 112 runs off 103 deliveries, striking 11 fours and one six.
The milestone moment came in the 49th over when Rahul launched a full toss from Kyle Jamieson over the boundary for six.
The shot not only brought up his hundred but also underlined his confidence and control late in the innings.
India closed their innings at 284 for 7, a total that appeared competitive given the nature of the surface.
Rahul’s knock played a decisive role in pushing India to a defendable score after early damage.
Beyond the match situation, the innings carried historic significance.
KL Rahul became the first designated Indian wicketkeeper-batter to score an ODI century against New Zealand, surpassing the previous best record held by MS Dhoni.
The achievement did not stop there.
Rahul also became the first Indian batter to score an ODI hundred in Rajkot, adding further rarity to his performance.
In testing conditions and under sustained pressure, Rahul’s innings was defined by temperament, clarity, and game awareness.
His knock not only revived India’s innings but also strengthened the team’s position in the match.
As the series progressed, Rahul’s performance stood out as a reminder of the importance of composure and experience in one-day cricket.
The century in Rajkot will be remembered as a landmark moment in his ODI career and a significant chapter in India’s cricketing records.
FAQs: KL Rahul first Indian wicketkeeper ODI century against New Zealand
Who scored a century for India in the 2nd ODI against New Zealand?
- KL Rahul scored an unbeaten 112 in the second ODI.
Why is KL Rahul’s century historically significant?
- He became the first Indian wicketkeeper-batter to score an ODI century against New Zealand.
Where was the India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI played?
- The match was held at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
What total did India post in the match?
- India scored 284 runs for the loss of 7 wickets.
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