Kohli’s 93 and Iyer’s comeback fifty power India to series-opening win in Baroda

A near-century from Virat Kohli, a timely half-century by Shreyas Iyer and a calm finish from KL Rahul helped India chase down 301 to beat New Zealand by four wickets in the first ODI.

Team India registered a convincing victory in the first One Day International at Baroda, successfully chasing a challenging target of 301 to take a 1-0 lead in the series. The chase was anchored by a fluent knock from Virat Kohli, a solid comeback effort by vice-captain Shreyas Iyer and a composed finish by KL Rahul.

India’s reply did not begin on the expected note. Openers failed to provide early momentum as Rohit Sharma departed inside the powerplay after scoring 26. With early pressure building, Virat Kohli joined skipper Shubman Gill and steadied the innings with a well-paced partnership.

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Gill looked in fine touch and brought up his half-century, while Kohli played with confidence and control. The pair added 118 runs for the second wicket off 107 deliveries, putting India firmly back on track and unsettling the New Zealand bowlers. Gill’s dismissal soon after his fifty ended the stand, but the foundation had already been laid.

Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer then walked in and ensured there was no collapse. Batting with assurance, Iyer complemented Kohli well as the duo added 77 runs for the fourth wicket. Kohli, who looked set for a century, fell just short of the milestone. He was dismissed for 93 off 91 balls, an innings that included eight boundaries and a powerful six, caught by Bracewell at extra cover.

Following Kohli’s exit, wickets fell in quick succession. Ravindra Jadeja managed only four runs before getting out, while Iyer’s determined innings came to an end at 49. Despite the brief wobble, India remained in control of the chase.

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Experienced batter KL Rahul then took charge and guided the team calmly to the finish line. Rahul remained unbeaten on 29, ensuring there were no further setbacks. India eventually crossed the target with one over to spare, sealing a four-wicket win.