Sports

Rahul’s Calm Batting Secures Four‑Run Win Over New Zealand

By Nitesh Dubey

In the rain‑affected second ODI at Wellington, India won by four runs after the match was decided by the Duckworth‑Lewis‑Stern method. With wickets falling at the other end, wicketkeeper‑batter KL Rahul remained unbeaten, guiding India to the required target. Former India all‑rounder Irfan Pathan praised Rahul’s technique and composure on difficult overseas pitches, calling him a pleasure to watch. India’s fast bowlers dominated New Zealand’s first innings, bowling the hosts out for 134 in 41 overs. Auqib Nabi took two wickets, including his maiden international wicket, while Gurnoor Brar claimed a double‑wicket maiden, removing Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips. Daryl Mitchell top‑scored with 55, and Mitchell Santner added 31 as the pair added 59 runs for the sixth wicket. Brar finished with 4/30, and Nabi, Anshul Kamboj and Axar Patel each took two wickets. In the chase, New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy dismissed Shubman Gill for a golden duck and Virat Kohli early. Kyle Jamieson reduced India to 47/4. Shreyas Iyer scored 30 off 46 and Rahul remained 26* off 38 as India fell to 113/7 when rain interrupted play. With India ahead on the DLS par score, the match ended in a four‑run victory for the hosts.