India Aims to Seal ODI Series Against New Zealand in Rajkot Clash
The Indian cricket team returns to action today with a golden opportunity to wrap up their three-match ODI series against New Zealand. After securing a convincing four-wicket victory in the opening game at Vadodara, the Men in Blue now head to Rajkot's Niranjan Shah Stadium for the second encounter.
Kohli's Masterclass Sets the Tone
India's triumph in the first ODI came largely thanks to a magnificent 93-run innings from batting maestro Virat Kohli. The veteran batsman demonstrated his enduring class, earning his 45th ODI man of the match award in the process. Captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer also contributed valuable runs, providing solid support to Kohli's dominant performance.
With the series on the line, India will be looking to their experienced campaigners to deliver once again. Rohit Sharma, who now focuses exclusively on the ODI format for India, brings additional firepower to the batting lineup alongside the in-form Kohli.
Team Changes and Strategy
Indian team management faces a selection decision following Washington Sundar's unfortunate rib injury during the first match. Reports from Surat suggest all-rounder Nitish Reddy stands as the frontrunner to replace Sundar in the playing eleven.
This potential change makes strategic sense for several reasons:
- Reddy offers additional bowling options beyond the specialist bowlers
- The Rajkot pitch at SCA Stadium typically favors high-scoring contests
- Having an extra bowler could prove crucial in containing New Zealand's batting lineup
Complete Match Viewing Guide
Cricket enthusiasts across India can follow every moment of this crucial encounter through multiple platforms.
Match Date and Venue: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
Toss Timing: 1:00 PM IST
Match Start: 1:30 PM IST
Live Streaming: JioHotstar app and website
Television Broadcast: Star Sports network channels
What's at Stake
A victory today would give India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, marking another successful chapter in their ODI campaign. For New Zealand, this represents a must-win situation to keep the series alive and force a decider in the third match.
The stage is set for an exciting contest between two cricketing powerhouses. With India seeking to capitalize on their momentum and New Zealand fighting to level the series, cricket fans can expect high-quality action from both teams.
