Rajkot, 14 January 2026 – New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell produced a brilliant unbeaten century to lead the Black Caps to a seven-wicket victory over India in the second one-day international at Rajkot, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.
Mitchell’s masterclass with the bat, combined with a crucial partnership with Will Young, helped New Zealand chase down India’s target of 285 runs with 15 balls to spare, showcasing both skill and composure under pressure.
Mitchell’s Stellar Knock
The 34-year-old right-hander reached 131 not out from 117 balls, marking his eighth ODI century, after following up an impressive 84 in the first match of the series. His innings included a variety of elegant strokes, culminating in a spectacular scooped four while falling backward, which sealed the win in style.
Coming in at 46-2, following the dismissals of Devon Conway (10) and Henry Nicholls (16), Mitchell assumed the responsibility for anchoring the chase. He expertly rotated the strike, punished loose deliveries, and paced the innings perfectly to keep New Zealand ahead of the required run rate.
Crucial Partnership with Will Young
Mitchell was supported by Will Young, who contributed 87 runs, as the pair shared a 162-run partnership, effectively taking the game away from India. Young eventually fell to Kuldeep Yadav, caught by Nitish Kumar Reddy, but the platform was set for Mitchell to finish the job alongside Glenn Phillips (32).
The chase, completed in 47.3 overs, highlighted New Zealand’s dominant batting performance and the ability of their middle order to absorb pressure and execute the plan.
India’s Batting Efforts
India set a competitive total of 284-7 in their 50 overs, thanks largely to KL Rahul’s unbeaten 112 off 92 balls. Rahul showcased his class with a mix of timing and power, supported by Shubman Gill’s 56 at the top of the order. However, the rest of India’s batting lineup faltered, with no other batter reaching 30, leaving the team with an underwhelming target for the chasing Black Caps.
Bowling highlights for New Zealand included Clarke, who finished with figures of 3-56, keeping India from posting an even bigger total.
Series Context and Upcoming Fixtures
With the series now level at 1-1, attention turns to the decisive third ODI in Indore on Sunday, which will determine the series winner. Following the ODIs, both teams will contest a five-match T20 series, providing further excitement for fans of international cricket.
New Zealand’s ability to bounce back under pressure, combined with Mitchell’s consistent form, makes them formidable opponents as they look to challenge India in both formats.
Key Stats
- Daryl Mitchell – 131* (117), eighth ODI century, average 56.73 in 58 ODIs
- Will Young – 87, vital 162-run partnership with Mitchell
- India total – 284-7, KL Rahul 112* (92)
- New Zealand total – 286-3, Mitchell 131*, Phillips 32
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