India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI: The India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI promises fireworks as both teams gear up for a high-scoring contest at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. With a flat pitch, clear weather, and power-packed batting line-ups, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in this classic ODI rivalry.
India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI
Pitch Report
The Rajkot surface is widely regarded as one of the most batter-friendly pitches in India. The wicket here is flat and hard, offering true bounce and even carry, making strokeplay a delight—especially in the first innings.
- All four ODIs played at this venue have been won by the team batting first
- Average total runs per match: 611
- Highest score: 352/5
- Lowest score: 252
- Boundaries hit: 274 (including 45 sixes)
- Overall strike rate: 102.1
As the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow down slightly, bringing spinners into play. However, pacers will need smart variations rather than sheer pace. Given these conditions, captains are expected to opt for batting first after winning the toss.
Weather Update
Weather will not be a factor in today’s match. Rajkot is set to enjoy clear skies, with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 27°C and humidity around 29%, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the day.
Head-to-Head
In the long-standing ODI rivalry between India and New Zealand, India currently enjoy a narrow overall lead.
- Total ODIs played: 120
- India wins: 62
- New Zealand wins: 50
- Ties: 1
- No results: 7
At home, India lead 31–26. Recent form strongly favors the hosts, who have won 7 of the last 10 ODIs, with two matches ending without results.
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Records to note:
- Highest team total: India – 397/4
- Lowest team total: New Zealand – 79
- Top run-scorers: Sachin Tendulkar (1750), Virat Kohli (1657)
- Top wicket-takers: Javagal Srinath (51), Anil Kumble (39)
Probable Playing XIs
India:
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ayush Badoni, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
New Zealand:
Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Mitch Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Glenn Phillips, Zak Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Kristian Clarke, Adithya Ashok
Live Streaming & Broadcast Details
Fans can catch the live action on the Star Sports Network (Star Sports 1/1 HD and Star Sports 3/3 HD). Online streaming is available via Disney+ Hotstar and the JioHotstar app and website in India.
With a road-like pitch, explosive batters on both sides, and no weather interruptions, the 2nd ODI in Rajkot is shaping up to be a run-fest. Anything below 320 could be considered below par, making this a must-watch encounter for cricket lovers.
Stay tuned as India and New Zealand battle it out in what promises to be a spectacular ODI showdown.
Team Cricket Duniyar writes on cricket and sports, providing timely updates, match previews, reviews, and trending stories from the world of sports.
