Indiayoung fast bowling sensation Harshit Rana produced a moment of sheer brilliance during the first ODI against New Zealand At the BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara while dismantling a threatening opening partnership with a perfectly disguised slower ball. Rana’s magic didn’t just eliminate a good set Henry Nicholls also sent back Devon Conway After a start dominated by the visitors, the momentum quickly moved in India’s favour.
India’s cup decision backfires early
After winning the toss, India opted to bat first on what looked like a good batting surface. However, the decision initially looked questionable as New Zealand’s openers took full advantage of the conditions. Conway and Nicholls batted with composure and authority, spinning strike efficiently while punishing loose deliveries. Their understanding in the middle was evident when they put together a 117-run opening stand, putting early pressure on the Indian bowlers and silencing the home crowd in Vadodara.
Harshit Rana takes Henry Nicholls away with beauty
Just when the partnership was about to do serious damage, Rana showed a moment of tactical brilliance in the 22nd game. After bowling a couple of shorter deliveries that were dispatched for boundaries, Rana cleverly set up Nicholls with a slower cutter. In the fourth ball, Rana bowled a slower ball outside off stump at 113 kmph. Anticipating the pace, Nicholls stretched out to squeeze the ball on the off side.
Instead, he only managed a poor outside edge and the ball flew to the keeper. KL Rahul reacted sharply, leaping to his left to complete a superb catch and break through a dangerous stand. The dismissal immediately lifted India’s energy on the field and marked a crucial turning point in the innings.
Also READ: IND vs NZ: Here’s why Rishabh Pant didn’t play his first ODI
Rana strikes again to get Conway out
Rena was not done yet. The young pacer, riding high with confidence, came back next time and hit another decisive blow. On the last ball of the 24th over, he hit a full speed 142.2 kmph that went over the seam and went in again. Reaching a well-made 56, Conway attempted a drive with stiff hands away from his body. The ball took a thick inside edge and crashed into leg stump, stunning the New Zealand opener.
We present the video:
One brings two to Harshit Rana and #TeamIndia!
New Zealand lost both their opponents.
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/OcIPHEpvjr#INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/gSzvDD40XU
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2026
Also READ: Shubman Gill on T20 World Cup 2026 exclusion as India prepares for New Zealand ODIs
