Team India’s keeper-batter KL Rahul shone with the bat under pressure in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match home series against New Zealand. The 33-year-old notched up his eighth century in the format, playing a splendid 112*-run knock from 92 balls at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot.
New Zealand won the toss and chose to field first. Rahul walked out to bat at No. 5 when the hosts were 115/3 in 21.3 overs. The hosts found themselves in a precarious position, losing wickets at regular intervals.
Rahul stood tall in the tough situation. The right-handed batter struck one six and 11 fours, scoring with an impressive strike rate of 121.74. His clutch knock helped India finish on 284/7 after 50 overs.
The senior player earned widespread praise on social media for his stunning batting exploits. Here are some of the top reactions on X:
Notably, KL Rahul looked in wonderful touch during India’s 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa at home as well. He was also the stand-in captain for the series, with regular ODI skipper Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer ruled out due to injuries.
The talented batter registered scores of 60 (56 balls) and 66* (43 balls) in the first two ODIs. He played a key role in India’s four-wicket win over New Zealand in the ODI series opener, staying unbeaten on 29 from 21 balls.
KL Rahul completes his century with a six off Kyle Jamieson’s bowling in IND vs NZ 2026 2nd ODI
KL Rahul’s heroics helped India post a competitive total in the encounter. He completed his century in some style, hitting a maximum of Kyle Jamieson‘s bowling in the 49th over.
The pacer dished out a full toss to finish the over. Rahul made the most of it by clearing the long-on fence to complete an excellent century. He celebrated the ton with a special two-finger celebration dedicated to his daughter Evaarah.
Meanwhile, India lead the ongoing series 1-0. The second ODI is a must-win for the Blackcaps to keep the series alive.
Edited by Aditya Suketu Desai
