India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI LIVE: KL Rahul Unbeaten Century Takes India to 284/7

India vs New Zealand LIVE Score, 2nd ODI: KL Rahul’s Unbeaten Ton Steers India To 284/7 vs NZ

The second One Day International between India and New Zealand delivered high-octane cricket action as India posted a competitive total of 284/7, powered by a magnificent unbeaten century from KL Rahul. Playing under pressure after early wickets, Rahul displayed composure, class, and leadership to anchor the Indian innings and keep his side firmly in the contest.

With the series delicately poised, the 2nd ODI carried immense importance for both teams, and the match lived up to expectations with momentum swings, quality bowling spells, and a match-defining knock from India’s vice-captain.

Match Summary: India Recover After Early Setbacks

India’s innings did not begin on an ideal note as New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack made early inroads. The openers struggled to convert starts, and wickets at regular intervals put India on the back foot during the powerplay overs.

However, KL Rahul walked in at a crucial juncture and immediately set about stabilizing the innings. Rotating the strike efficiently and punishing loose deliveries, Rahul built vital partnerships through the middle overs, ensuring India did not lose momentum completely.

Despite losing wickets at the other end, Rahul remained unfazed and paced his innings brilliantly, switching gears effortlessly in the final overs.

KL Rahul’s Unbeaten Century: A Masterclass in ODI Batting

KL Rahul’s innings was a textbook example of modern ODI batting. He combined patience with aggression, starting cautiously before expanding his range of shots as the innings progressed. His unbeaten century came off controlled stroke play rather than reckless hitting, showcasing maturity and experience.

Key highlights of Rahul’s knock:

Calm under pressure after early wickets
Excellent strike rotation against spin
Clean hitting in the death overs
Anchored the innings till the last ball

Rahul’s ability to bat deep ensured India crossed the 280-run mark, which looked challenging at one stage.

Support Acts and Contributions from the Middle Order

While KL Rahul was the standout performer, India also received valuable contributions from the middle order. Short but impactful knocks helped keep the scoreboard ticking, even though New Zealand’s bowlers maintained pressure with tight lines and lengths.

The lower-order batters chipped in during the final overs, allowing India to maximize the last 10 overs and push the total to 284/7, a score that promises a competitive second innings on most ODI surfaces.

New Zealand’s Bowling Effort: Discipline and Control

New Zealand’s bowlers executed their plans well, especially in the first half of the innings. Their seamers exploited early movement, while the spinners controlled the middle overs to prevent India from accelerating freely.

Despite conceding a century, New Zealand managed to restrict India from crossing the 300-run mark, which could prove crucial during the chase.

Why 284/7 Is a Competitive Total

In modern ODI cricket, totals around 280–290 often create exciting chases. India’s score provides:

Enough runs to apply scoreboard pressure
Opportunity for bowlers to attack with slip fielders early
Flexibility to use spinners in the middle overs

With dew, pitch conditions, and chasing pressure all playing a role, the match remains evenly balanced.

What to Expect in the Second Innings

New Zealand’s batting lineup will need a strong start to neutralize India’s bowling attack. Much will depend on how well they handle the new ball and whether they can avoid losing early wickets.

India, on the other hand, will look to strike early and defend the total by applying constant pressure through disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.