Rajkot | Jan 14,2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
KL Rahul Creates History:
India’s dependable batter KL Rahul etched his name into the history books with a sensational unbeaten century against New Zealand in the second ODI of the ongoing series at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot, on Wednesday. Rahul’s masterclass made him the first Indian wicketkeeper to score a hundred against the Black Caps in One-Day Internationals.
Adding to the milestone, Rahul also became the first Indian cricketer to score an ODI century in Rajkot, underlining the significance of his innings.
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Historic 100 Under Pressure
Rahul brought up his eighth ODI century in dramatic fashion, launching Kyle Jamieson’s full toss into the stands in the 49th over. The Karnataka batter reached the landmark in just 87 balls and remained unbeaten on 112, striking 11 fours and one six in a composed yet authoritative knock.
Walking in at No. 5, Rahul began cautiously, playing six dot balls before opening his account on the seventh delivery. With the innings delicately poised, he soon found himself under pressure following the dismissal of Virat Kohli, who managed just 23 runs.
Key Partnerships Steady India’s Innings
In a tense middle phase, Rahul stitched together a 73-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who chipped in with 27 runs before departing. The 33-year-old then anchored the innings alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy, ensuring India maintained momentum through the final overs.
Thanks largely to Rahul’s calm presence, India posted a competitive total of 284/7, setting New Zealand a challenging target on a surface that rewarded disciplined batting.
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Composure Defines Rahul’s ODI Brilliance
Rahul’s greatest asset in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand has been his remarkable composure. Whether rebuilding after early wickets or accelerating at the death, he has shown exceptional game awareness and shot selection.
His average of over 65 against New Zealand in ODIs reflects his consistency and ability to avoid rash decisions. Unlike explosive top-order batters, Rahul adapts to match situations, making him a vital cog in India’s middle order — a trait on full display in Rajkot.
Strong Momentum in the Series
Rahul’s Rajkot heroics come on the back of another impactful performance in the ODI series opener at Vadodara. There, he played a brisk cameo, scoring 29 off 21 balls, including two fours and a six, and finished the chase in style to help India secure a four-wicket win.
With his bat doing the talking, KL Rahul continues to prove his value as both a match-winner and a stabilising force in India’s ODI setup.
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