India Go into the second ODI in Rajkot with a 1-0 series lead and a chance to win the trophy. After a high-scoring thriller in Vadodara where India successfully chased down 301, the action shifts to Niranjan Shah Stadium, a venue legendary for being a batting paradise.
While the veterans continue to lead the charge, the narrative of this series has shifted to the young brigade and managing injuries. With the series on the line New Zealand they face a do-or-die scenario to keep the three-match contest alive.
The Indian camp faces a tactical change after a significant injury blow across the board Washington Sundar will miss the rest of the series due to a rib injury in the opening match. In his absence, the selectors introduced the first ODI call-up Ayush Badonicould potentially make his debut if the team management decides to bolster his batting depth right on the Rajkot deck. India’s confidence remains high, however, thanks to their sublime form Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill. After hitting 93 in his first ODI, Kohli finds himself on the brink of history and keeps getting closer. Sachin TendulkarRecord for most runs in India-New Zealand competition.
The main goal for New Zealand is to find more penetration in their bowling attack. Despite posting a massive opening total of just over 300, the Kiwi bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batsmen; while Kyle Jamieson Impressed with four wickets, he lacked consistent support from the rest of the pack. On the batting front though Daryl Mitchell and Devon Conway Having shown great adaptability to Indian conditions, visitors will be looking for later shooting fireworks. captain Michael Bracewell It will call for his middle order to step up more effectively in the last ten overs to ensure they can set or chase down a target which puts India’s powerhouse under real pressure.
Niranjan Shah Stadium Pitch Report
The Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot is famous for hosting some of the flattest tracks in India, making it a certified batter’s paradise. With a staggering ODI average of 322 in recent times, fans should expect another high-octane run-fest. The surface offers real bounce and consistent pace, allowing hitters to trust their technique and play across the line with ease. While spinners can get some grip during the middle overs, the combination of lightning-fast outfield and relatively small boundaries offers little margin for error.
With clear, sunny skies and a peak temperature of 28°C, the pitch will remain firm. However, the evening dew factor is the most critical variable. The humidity will make it difficult to catch the ball for the second bowler and make the shot crucial. Consequently, the captain who wins the toss will almost always opt to bowl first to take advantage of better batting conditions under lights.
Also READ: IND vs NZ: Rib injury rules out Washington Sundar for rest of ODI series; change was announced
Niranjan Shah Stadium Stats and Records
- General Compatibility: 7
- Matches won in first innings: 6
- Matches won in bowling: 1
- Average 1st Innings Score: 332
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 254
- Most recorded common: 435/5 (50 Overs) India Women vs Ireland Women
- The lowest total recorded was: 131/10 (31.4 Ovs) Ireland Women vs India Women
- Highest Score Pursued: 241/4 (34.3 Ovs) India Women vs Ireland Women
- Lowest score defended: 270/7 (50 Ovs) South Africa vs India
Also READ: Fastest to 28,000: Here’s a breakdown of Virat Kohli’s international runs
