Rahul becomes 1st Indian wicketkeeper to score ODI century vs New Zealand

Rajkot: India’s dependable batter KL Rahul made history on Wednesday, scoring an unbeaten century against New Zealand in the second ODI of the ongoing series at Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot. Rahul became the first Indian wicketkeeper to hit a hundred against the Black Caps in 50-over cricket and also the first Indian to score an ODI century in Rajkot.

Rahul reached his eighth ODI century with a towering six off Kyle Jamieson in the 49th over, completing his hundred in just 87 balls. The Karnataka wicketkeeper-batter remained unbeaten on 112, featuring 11 fours and one six.

Coming in at number five, Rahul had a slow start with six dot balls before opening his account on the seventh delivery. With Virat Kohli dismissed for 23, Rahul steadied the innings, forging a crucial 73-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who added 27 runs. He continued to anchor the innings alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy, guiding India to a competitive total of 284/7.

Rahul’s composure has been a key strength in the series, whether chasing targets or rebuilding after early wickets. His ODI average of over 65 against New Zealand underscores his ability to play smart, measured innings and adapt to match situations, particularly in the middle overs.

The 33-year-old also impressed in the series opener at Vadodara, hitting 29 off 21 balls, including two fours and a six in the final over, to help India secure a four-wicket win.

Rahul’s innings on Wednesday reinforced his reputation as a reliable, game-reading middle-order batter capable of turning the tide in India’s favour.

With IANS inputs