India rode on a brilliant pace-bowling display and a stroke of DLS fortune to edge past New Zealand by four runs in a rain-affected second ODI in Wellington
India managed to secure a victory by four runs (via the DLS method) after rain interrupted their chase, but they were in luck as the Duckworth-Lewis method was in their favour, helping them clinch a 2-0 series lead on Saturday in Wellington.
The second ODI was reduced to 47 overs per side after a drizzle disrupted play, with the overcast conditions in Wellington offering assistance to the bowlers.
After winning the toss, India captain Shubman Gill made the expected decision to bowl first, a call that left New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner dispirited.
India pacers deliver another standout performance
The Indian pacers were sizzling in the wet conditions as they scared the living daylights out of the seasoned Blackcaps’ batting line-up as they consistently lost their wickets. Gurnoor Brar used the short-ball strategy to perfection, picking up his career-best 4/30 in 10 overs.
Anshul Kamboj was another bright star in India’s pace arsenal, picking up two crucial wickets in his eight-over spell, keeping the Indian fans on the edge of their seats.
More from FirstcricketAquib Nabi drew first blood before NZ could score a single run on the scoreboard, dismissing Tim Seifert for a duck. The Kiwi opener struck an up-ish drive, and Kamboj, at mid-wicket, dove in front to give Nabi his first-ever international wicket.
India’s bowling heroics restricted New Zealand to a meagre 134 in the second ODI match.
India get lucky after rain stops play
While chasing the target, India picked up a jittery start, with star players Rohit Sharma, captain Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli failing to put up productive numbers. Iyer put up a decent 30-run knock, while Rohit hit a 23-run cameo.
KL Rahul maintained composure in the middle overs, making sure that the Indian bowlers’ incredible performance did not go to waste.
India were 113/7 in 26 overs when rain came pouring down. Luckily, their DLS par score was 109 before the match was called off, handing them a crucial win.