India began the ODI series against New Zealand with a confident win, chasing down a challenging 300-run target in the first match. The India vs New Zealand 1st ODI, played in Vadodara, saw the hosts hold their nerve to secure a four-wicket victory and take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.
IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Match Result at a Glance
Batting first, the New Zealand National Cricket Team posted 300 for 8 in 50 overs. India responded with a composed chase, reaching 306 for 6, sealing the match with an over to spare.
The win gives the India National Cricket Team an early advantage in the series.
New Zealand Innings: Mitchell Anchors the Effort
New Zealand’s innings was built around a strong knock from Daryl Mitchell, who top-scored with a well-paced 84. He held the middle order together after early wickets and ensured the visitors crossed the 300-run mark.
India’s bowlers managed to strike at regular intervals but conceded runs during the middle overs, allowing New Zealand to finish with a competitive total.
India’s Chase: Kohli Leads From the Front
Chasing 301, India started steadily before settling into a controlled rhythm. Virat Kohli played a key role with a composed 93, guiding the chase and absorbing pressure when required.
He received crucial support from Shubman Gill, who added a fluent half-century. Their partnership ensured India stayed ahead of the required run rate for most of the chase.
Middle-Order Control Seals the Game
While India lost a few wickets along the way, the middle order showed maturity to avoid a collapse. Rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries, India kept the chase on track and finished the game calmly in the closing stages.
New Zealand’s bowlers fought hard but struggled to break partnerships once Kohli settled in.
Key Turning Points of the Match
One of the key moments came during India’s middle overs, when Kohli and Gill rebuilt after early wickets. Another decisive phase was the final 15 overs, where India avoided panic and reduced the equation steadily.
New Zealand’s inability to apply sustained pressure in these phases proved costly.
What This Means for the Series
With this win, India take a 1–0 lead in the ODI series and gain confidence heading into the second match. New Zealand will look to regroup, especially their bowling plans in the middle overs, to level the series.
India, meanwhile, will aim to carry forward their batting momentum and tighten execution with the ball.
Final Takeaway
The India vs New Zealand 1st ODI underlined the value of composure in run chases. New Zealand set a strong total, but India’s calm batting, led by Virat Kohli, ensured a successful chase. With the series now underway, the contest promises more competitive cricket in the matches ahead.