New Zealand Reach 300/8 Against India in 1st ODI at Vadodara

India’s decision to bowl first under clear Vadodara skies set the tone for a gripping opening chapter of the India vs New Zealand ODI series, but New Zealand ensured they would not be brushed aside easily. 

On a surface that offered value for strokeplay early and just enough assistance later for disciplined bowling, the visitors battled their way to a competitive 300 for 8 at the Kotambi Stadium, a total built on composure at the top and urgency through the middle.

New Zealand’s innings took shape through a confident opening stand that immediately challenged India’s new-ball plans. Henry Nicholls (62) and Devon Conway (56) were fluent rather than frenetic, content to collect runs square of the wicket while punishing anything overpitched. 

Their partnership, worth 117, drained early momentum from India and forced frequent changes in the field. India found an opening through debutant Harshit Rana, who changed the complexion of the innings with two wickets in quick succession. Rana removed Conway with a hard-length delivery before trapping Nicholls shortly after, reducing New Zealand from 117 without loss to 126 for 2 and giving the hosts a foothold.

Mitchell Counters As India Tighten The Screws

Mitchell struck 84 off 71 balls, mixing power with smart shot selection as India attempted to choke the scoring rate. His innings included clean hits down the ground and authoritative pulls off the seamers, ensuring New Zealand did not lose momentum after the openers’ departure.

Just as India sensed an opening late in the innings, debutant Kristian Clarke provided New Zealand with valuable finishing touches. Calm under pressure, Clarke rotated strike efficiently and found the boundary when it mattered, his unbeaten 24 ensuring the innings closed with purpose rather than a whimper.

India’s bowling effort was one of persistence rather than domination. Mohammed Siraj, operating with pace and discipline, finished with 2 for 40, while Prasidh Krishna chipped in with 2 for 60, using extra bounce to good effect. Rana ended with 2 wickets, capping an impressive spell, while Kuldeep Yadav picked up 1 for 52 through the middle overs. 

By the end of 50 overs, New Zealand had assembled a total that reflected resilience and adaptability. It may not have been overwhelming, but it was well-earned, and on a surface that promised runs, it set up a meaningful challenge for India’s batting to come.