Virat Kohli played a crucial role with the bat for India, scoring 95 runs from 104 balls in a thrilling Cricket World Cup match. On the other side, Daryl Mitchell’s explosive century (130 runs) helped New Zealand post a total of 273 before they were all out.
Despite Kohli not being able to finish the chase, his composed innings significantly contributed to India achieving the victory target of 274 with two overs to spare, maintaining their unbeaten record in the tournament, and securing an “India wins against New Zealand” moment.
In the clash of two previously unbeaten teams, India opted to field first, and they swiftly removed both of New Zealand’s opening batsmen.
However, three dropped catches marred India’s fielding performance, allowing New Zealand to escape tricky situations.
Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra formed an impressive 159-run partnership, positioning New Zealand at a strong 205-3 in the 37th over, and it seemed like they were on track for a 300-plus total before the Indian bowlers applied the brakes. Leading this effort was Mohammed Shami, who claimed 5 wickets for 54 runs in his tournament debut.
Captain Rohit Sharma made a significant contribution to India’s energetic start with 46 runs, but it was Virat Kohli’s fourth score of over 50 in five innings that ultimately led India to hand New Zealand their first defeat of the tournament.
India won the toss and elected to field, putting New Zealand in a tough spot at 19 for 2.
However, Mitchell played a pivotal role in their recovery with a 161-run partnership alongside Rachin Ravindra.
Shami dismissed Ravindra for 75 and later accounted for Mitchell on his way to 5 wickets for 54 runs. This was after Mitchell had unleashed five maximums during his scintillating innings, helping New Zealand reach a total of 273 all out in their 50 overs.
Sharma led India’s response with 46 runs and a 71-run partnership alongside Shubman Gill before the spotlight shifted to Virat Kohli. Kohli expertly guided India’s chase, forming half-century stands with Shreyas Iyer (33) and KL Rahul (27) before Ravindra Jadeja joined the action with India at 191-5.
As the 46th over concluded, a Kohli century seemed unlikely with 19 runs needed for victory and 18 for his three figures. However, a remarkable six over cow corner off Trent Boult and a four-two balls later suddenly brought Kohli into the nineties. Unfortunately, he fell short of matching Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 ODI centuries.
In the following over by Matt Henry, Kohli’s ambitious stroke found Glen Phillips, momentarily hushing the passionate home crowd. However, the silenced crowd swiftly reignited their celebration when Ravindra Jadeja struck a four, securing a fifth consecutive victory and positioning them two points ahead at the summit of the table.
India will clash with England in Lucknow on Sunday, October 29 (with the first ball at 8.30 AM UK time), while New Zealand is scheduled to face Australia in Dharamsala on Saturday, October 28 (with the first ball at 6 AM UK time).
India’s Victory Stamped as Kohli’s Stellar Performance in Cricket World Cup Clash India wins Against New Zealand.
