IND VS NZ 2nd ODI: KL Rahul shines under pressure, surpasses THIS legend with gritty century

When the stakes rise and India find themselves in trouble, KL Rahul often emerges as the calm in the storm. The stylish wicketkeeper-batter once again underlined his reputation as a crisis man, producing a splendid century under pressure in the second ODI against New Zealand at Rajkot.

A packed Niranjan Shah Stadium had gathered in anticipation of big knocks from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. While both senior batters made starts, neither could convert them into substantial scores. It was Rahul, the 33-year-old wicketkeeper, who seized the moment and carried India’s innings when it mattered most.

A Landmark Hundred

Rahul registered his eighth ODI century, standing tall at a time when only Shubman Gill managed to cross the 30-run mark among Indian batters. In the process, he surpassed former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin’s tally of seven ODI hundreds a feat Azhar achieved across 334 matches. Rahul reached the milestone in just his 93rd ODI, highlighting his ability to deliver in testing situations.

Anchoring the Innings

Walking in during the 22nd over, Rahul played a composed yet commanding knock, remaining unbeaten on 112 off 92 balls. His innings was studded with 11 boundaries and a six, helping India post a competitive 284 for seven in their 50 overs.

Partnerships That Mattered

With the pitch offering some turn in the middle overs and Kohli dismissed for 23, Rahul showed remarkable composure. He stitched together a vital 73-run stand for the fifth wicket with Ravindra Jadeja before accelerating in the death overs to lift India’s total.

A Test of India’s Resolve

Thanks to Rahul’s resolve, India recovered from a difficult position to set New Zealand a target of 285. With the average first-innings score at the venue being higher, the challenge now shifts to India’s bowlers. Yet once again, Rahul has reminded everyone why he is among India’s most dependable match-winners.