Daryl Mitchell delivered one of the finest innings of his career as New Zealand secured a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over India in the second ODI at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on January 14, 2026. The result has leveled the three-match series at 1-1, with the decisive final encounter set for January 18 in Indore.

Mitchell's unbeaten 131 off 117 deliveries was a masterclass in calculated aggression and composure under pressure. The experienced campaigner struck 11 boundaries and two maximums as he anchored the New Zealand chase with remarkable poise. His innings earned him the Player of the Match award and reminded the cricketing world of his ability to perform on the biggest stages.

India had set what appeared to be a competitive total of 284 for seven after being asked to bat first. KL Rahul was the standout performer for the hosts, crafting a brilliant unbeaten century of 112 runs from just 92 balls. The elegant right-hander demonstrated his class with 11 fours and a six, proving once again why he remains one of India's most reliable batters in white-ball cricket.

Shubman Gill provided solid support at the top of the order with a fluent 56 off 53 deliveries, his knock featuring nine boundaries and a six. The young opener looked in sublime touch before his departure, helping India establish a strong foundation. However, the Indian middle order could not capitalize as effectively as they would have hoped, with New Zealand's bowlers maintaining disciplined lines and lengths throughout the innings.

Kristian Clarke was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, claiming three crucial wickets to restrict India's scoring in the death overs. His ability to generate movement and hit hard lengths consistently troubled the Indian batters and prevented them from accelerating to an even more imposing total.

In response, New Zealand's chase was built around a magnificent partnership between Mitchell and Will Young. The pair combined for 162 runs, effectively taking the game away from India during the middle overs. Young contributed a valuable 87 runs off 98 balls, playing the perfect supporting role to Mitchell's more aggressive approach.

The match had a significant turning point that could haunt India for some time. Prasidh Krishna dropped a straightforward catch off Mitchell when the New Zealand batter was on 82. Given how Mitchell went on to dominate the remainder of the innings, that missed opportunity proved devastatingly costly for the hosts.

Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 32 as New Zealand reached their target with 15 balls to spare, completing a chase that looked increasingly comfortable as the innings progressed. The visitors' batting depth and composure under pressure were evident throughout their reply.

The series decider in Indore promises to be a fascinating contest. India will need to regroup and address their bowling concerns, while New Zealand will carry significant momentum into the finale. With both teams having now tasted victory, the stage is set for a captivating conclusion to what has become a highly competitive series.

For Indian cricket fans, the defeat raises questions about the team's ability to defend totals in ODI cricket, particularly against quality opposition. Meanwhile, New Zealand's confidence will be sky-high as they look to secure a memorable series victory on Indian soil.