Rajkot, January 14, 2026: New Zealand produced a composed and clinical all-round performance to defeat India by seven wickets in the second One-Day International at Rajkot on Wednesday, leveling the three-match series 1–1 and recording their highest successful ODI run chase on Indian soil.
The foundation of the victory was laid by Daryl Mitchell, who played one of the finest knocks of his ODI career. Calm under pressure and ruthless once set, Mitchell remained unbeaten on 131 off 117 deliveries, blending patience with authority to dismantle the Indian bowling attack. His innings anchored the chase and ensured New Zealand never lost control of the required run rate.
After early wickets put the visitors on the back foot, Will Young provided vital stability with a fluent 87, building a decisive partnership with Mitchell that effectively broke India’s resistance. Young fell just short of a century, but by the time he departed, the outcome was largely prevented. Mitchell then combined with Glenn Phillips, whose brisk 32 not out sealed the chase with 15 deliveries to spare.
Earlier, India had posted a competitive total largely due to a superb innings from KL Rahul, who stood tall amid regular wickets. Rahul struck an unbeaten 112 from 92 balls, holding the innings together with measured partnerships involving Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy. Despite his effort, India’s middle order struggled to convert starts, and the total proved slightly below par on a surface that eased considerably under lights.
New Zealand’s bowlers had earlier set the tone, with disciplined spells in the middle overs preventing India from accelerating late. Their fielding, sharp and alert, added further pressure and ensured the chase began with clarity and confidence.
Speaking after the match, New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell praised the collective effort, noting that the team was comfortable chasing any target after restricting India effectively. Indian skipper Shubman Gill admitted his side could have been braver in the middle overs once the pitch settled.
The series now moves to Indore for the decisive third ODI, with both teams looking to fine-tune combinations ahead of upcoming international commitments.
Brief scores:
India 284/7 in 50 overs (KL Rahul 112*); New Zealand 286/3 in 47.3 overs (Daryl Mitchell 131*). New Zealand won by 7 wickets.
