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KL Rahul Makes History as First Indian Wicketkeeper with ODI Ton vs NZ

KL Rahul carved his name into the record books with an unbeaten 112 against New Zealand in Rajkot. His innings made him the first Indian wicketkeeper to score an ODI century against the Black Caps. Rahul showcased remarkable composure, rebuilding the innings after the dismissal of Virat Kohli and forming a crucial partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. This knock follows his match-winning cameo in the series opener, underlining his vital role in India's middle order.

Key Points: KL Rahul First Indian Wicketkeeper Century vs New Zealand

  • Historic century as wicketkeeper
  • Unbeaten 112 from 87 balls
  • First Indian ODI ton in Rajkot
  • Key 73-run partnership with Jadeja
  • Sealed series opener win in Vadodara
2 min read

Rahul becomes first Indian wicketkeeper to hit a century against New Zealand in ODIs

KL Rahul scores unbeaten 112, becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to hit an ODI century against New Zealand. Record-breaking knock in Rajkot.

Rahul becomes first Indian wicketkeeper to hit a century against New Zealand in ODIs
"becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to score a hundred against the Black Caps - Report"

Rajkot, Jan 14

India's dependable batter KL Rahul etched his name in the record books with a magnificent unbeaten century against New Zealand in the second match of the ongoing ODI series at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday, becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to score a hundred against the Black Caps in the 50-over format.

He is also the first Indian to score an ODI century in Rajkot.

Rahul achieved the unique feat by sending Kyle Jamieson's full toss into the stands in the 49th over to bring up his eighth ODI century. The wicketkeeper-batter from Karnataka reached his hundred in just 87 balls. The Indian star remained unbeaten on 112 as he hammered 11 fours and one six against the Black Caps.

Coming to bat at number five, Rahul started slowly with six dot balls. He finally got off the mark on the seventh ball. As his nerves settled, he lost the support of his partner Virat Kohli, who got out after scoring just 23 runs.

In a tense situation, Rahul forged a 73-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who later got out after scoring 27 runs. The 33-year-old then continued to steer Team India's innings with support from Nitish Kumar Reddy at the other end. Rahul helped the team post a challenging score of 284/7 to the visitors to chase.

Rahul's biggest strength in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand has been his composure. Whether chasing a big target or rebuilding after early wickets, he has shown patience and smart shot-selection. His average of over 65 in ODIs against New Zealand reflects how rarely he throws his wicket away. Unlike aggressive top-order hitters, Rahul reads the game situation well and adjusts his pace accordingly, making him extremely valuable in the middle overs, as seen on Wednesday.

Rahul recently played a fiery knock in the ODI series opener at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. He finished the game in style by hitting two fours and a six in the 49th over to help India beat New Zealand by four wickets. Rahul scored 29 runs off just 21 balls, including two fours and a six.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a cricket fan living abroad, it's great to see Rahul cementing his place. His average of 65 against NZ is phenomenal. He's not just a hitter; he's a proper intelligent batsman who reads the game so well.
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Priya S
First Indian wicketkeeper to score a century against New Zealand! That's a huge record. He started with 6 dots but didn't panic. That's the sign of a mature player. Well done, KL! 🎉
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Rohit P
While the century was brilliant, I hope he can bring this consistency to bigger tournaments. Sometimes he goes into a shell. But today, he was magnificent. The partnership with Jadeja was crucial.
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Vikram M
From Karnataka with pride! He's carrying the legacy of Dravid with his calmness. Scoring a century at No. 5 as a keeper is not easy. He's our most valuable player in the middle order right now.
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Michael C
The article rightly points out his smart shot-selection. In modern cricket where everyone tries to hit from ball one, Rahul's ability to build an innings is a rare skill. Great win for India!

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