India cemented their status as the world's premier chasing unit in one-day internationals with a nail-biting four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Vadodara on Sunday. The win not only gave the hosts a 1-0 lead in the three-match series but also saw them achieve an unprecedented milestone in the 50-over format.
A Landmark Pursuit in Vadodara
Facing a challenging target of 301 set by New Zealand, the Indian batting lineup showcased remarkable depth and composure to cross the finish line with six balls to spare. This successful chase marked a historic first: India became the first cricket team ever to successfully chase down a target of 300 or more runs on 20 separate occasions in ODI history. This achievement extends their lead at the top of this elite list, ahead of England (15) and Australia (14).
Kohli Anchors, Late Flourish Seals the Deal
The chase was masterfully anchored by the experienced Virat Kohli, who played a classy innings of 93 runs from just 91 deliveries. His knock, studded with eight fours and a six, laid a solid foundation. He built a crucial 118-run partnership for the second wicket with returning captain Shubman Gill, who contributed a steady 56. Kohli then combined with Shreyas Iyer, who scored a fluent 49, to keep the momentum going.
However, the path to victory was fraught with tension. After Kohli's dismissal at 234, India suffered a mini-collapse, slipping to 242 for 5 as New Zealand's Kyle Jamieson (4/41) fought back. With the game in the balance, late cameos from Harshit Rana (29 off 22 balls) and the calm KL Rahul (29 not out off 21) proved decisive. Rahul finished the game in style in the penultimate over, hitting two fours and a six to seal the historic win.
Match Context and Looking Ahead
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 300 for 8 on the board, powered by half-centuries from Devon Conway (56), Henry Nicholls (62), and a top-score of 84 from Daryl Mitchell. For India, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna took two wickets each.
Virat Kohli was deservedly named the Player of the Match, his 45th such award in ODIs, bringing him closer to Sanath Jayasuriya's record of 48. The victory sets the stage for the second ODI in Rajkot on Wednesday, with India riding high on confidence from this record-breaking performance.
