IND vs NZ: Karnataka Star Saves Ind From Collapse

KL Rahul once again showed why you trust him in tough situations. He scored his eighth One Day International century during the IND vs NZ 2nd ODI in 2026, proving his value as India’s most reliable middle order batter.

India in early trouble

Batting at number five, Rahul walked in when India were under real pressure. After a steady start, you saw the innings slip from 99 for one to 113 for four, with key wickets falling in quick succession.

Pressure mounts on middle order

The run rate slowed sharply as four wickets went down. With more than half the overs still left, only the bowling all rounders remained. At that point, you knew India needed someone to take control.

Rahul rebuilds the innings

Rahul responded with calm and clarity. You could see him rebuild the innings ball by ball, focusing on strike rotation and smart shot selection rather than risky strokes under pressure.

A composed century

Rahul reached his hundred in 87 balls. He struck nine fours and one six, showing control rather than brute force. You witnessed a knock built on patience, awareness, and strong decision-making.

Leading after Kohli’s dismissal

When Virat Kohli got out at 120, India were struggling to think about a competitive total. With Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy as partners, Rahul took full responsibility.

Guiding India to safety

Rahul finished unbeaten on 112 off 92 balls. You saw him guide India to a fighting total of 284 for seven. Apart from Shubman Gill, no other batter crossed fifty.

Another rescue act

This was Rahul’s 21st international hundred for India, across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. You see again that his biggest strength is delivering when conditions are difficult and pressure is high.

Underrated but dependable

Time and again, Rahul has rescued India from tricky situations. This knock in Rajkot was another reminder that he remains one of the most dependable and underrated players in Indian cricket.