In a thrilling encounter that went down to the wire, the Indian cricket team secured a hard-fought four-wicket victory against New Zealand in the first One Day International. Chasing a challenging target of 301, the hosts crossed the line with six wickets down and just one over to spare, finishing at 306 for six in 49 overs.
Kohli's Masterclass Sets the Stage
The cornerstone of India's successful chase was a magnificent innings from the experienced Virat Kohli. The star batter played a controlled and calculated knock, scoring 93 crucial runs to anchor the middle order. His departure in the 40th over, with the team seemingly in a commanding position, unexpectedly triggered a dramatic finale.
A Nervous Finish After Kohli's Exit
Following Kohli's dismissal, what looked like a comfortable chase turned into a tense affair. A sudden flurry of wickets fell, putting pressure on the lower-order batsmen. The New Zealand bowlers fought back valiantly, creating several anxious moments for the home crowd before India finally clinched the win.
Looking Ahead in the Series
This victory gives India a vital 1-0 lead in the ODI series. The match, played on 11 January 2026, showcased high-quality cricket from both sides. While Kohli's innings was the highlight, the nervy finish underscores the competitive nature of the contest and sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the series.
