India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI: Gill Hits Fifty, Kohli Nears Historic Record
Virat Kohli eyes unprecedented six consecutive ODI fifties as India dominate early.
India have progressed to 99/2 after 16.5 overs in the second ODI against New Zealand at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, with the run rate at 5.88. New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell, having won the toss and elected to field, saw his bowlers strike twice in quick succession. Shubman Gill departed for 56 after a well-constructed half-century, caught off Kyle Jamieson, who now has figures of 1-30 from 5.5 overs. Virat Kohli, on 14 from 11 balls, and Shreyas Iyer are now at the crease following the drinks break.
The innings began strongly with an opening partnership of around 70 runs between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill before Kristian Clarke removed Rohit for 24 in the 13th over. Gill accelerated post-powerplay, reaching his 17th ODI fifty off 47 balls with a boundary through covers off Jamieson. However, New Zealand fought back as Jamieson claimed Gill's wicket shortly after, preventing further momentum. Debutant Jayden Lennox has bowled economically at 0-16 from four overs, supporting the pace attack effectively.
Virat Kohli remains on the verge of a significant milestone, needing a fifty to become the first Indian batter to achieve six consecutive 50-plus scores in ODIs. Currently level with Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane at five, Kohli's streak includes his 93 in the series opener. A strong contribution here would place him ahead of these legends and align him with global names like Kane Williamson and Babar Azam.
New Zealand, trailing 0-1 in the series after India's chase victory in Vadodara, are pushing for early inroads on a batting-friendly pitch that has historically produced high totals. India replaced the injured Washington Sundar with Nitish Kumar Reddy, adding depth to their lineup. The visitors need to contain the middle order to restrict India below a challenging target on this venue, where teams batting first have often succeeded.
With the series potentially on the line, India are well-positioned to post a formidable score and close out the rubber. Kohli's pursuit of the record, combined with contributions from Gill and Iyer, keeps the contest intriguing as play resumes in Rajkot.
