Virat Kohli Stars with Masterful 93 as India Edges New Zealand in Thrilling First ODI
Virat Kohli delivered a commanding 93 off 91 balls to anchor a tense four-wicket victory for India over New Zealand in the first ODI on Sunday, securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Chasing a competitive 301 for victory in Vadodara, India reached 306-6 with six balls to spare, overcoming a late stumble against pacer Kyle Jamieson (4-41). Kohli’s innings, featuring eight fours and a six, formed the backbone of the chase after New Zealand posted 300-8 thanks to Daryl Mitchell’s brisk 84.
The hosts’ chase appeared steady until Jamieson’s triple-strike in the final overs—removing Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shreyas Iyer in quick succession—threatened to derail the effort. However, composed cameos from Harshit Rana (29 off 23) and Lokesh Rahul (29* off 21) guided India over the line.
New Zealand had earlier squandered a strong platform after openers Devon Conway (56) and Henry Nicholls (62) added 117. Mitchell’s counterattack and a late burst from debutant Kristian Clarke (24 off 17) propelled the Black Caps to an imposing total, but it proved just short against Kohli’s class and India’s depth.
India’s innings was set up by Kohli’s partnerships: 118 for the second wicket with Shubman Gill (50 off 66) and 77 for the third with Shreyas Iyer (49). Despite Jamieson’s heroics, India’s lower order showed resilience to seal the win.
The second ODI will be played in Rajkot on Wednesday, with New Zealand seeking to level the series.
