Kohli Scores 74 as India Beat New Zealand by Five Wickets
Rain shortened the chase in Auckland, but India's bowling attack dismantled the home side's innings.
By Katherine Diallo ·
Rain reduced the target, but India needed just 185 to win by five wickets in the series opener at Eden Park. Virat Kohli reached 74 from 51 balls, marking his 80th one-day international half-century. He took a diving catch at slips to dismiss Nathan Smith, a key moment before India chased down the revised total.
New Zealand lost the toss to captain Shubman Gill and were bowled out for 185 in 40.2 overs. The home batters struggled against short-pitched bowling, following their 259-for-seven score in the fourth T20 match just five days earlier. Tim Seifert, covering for the concussed Devon Conway, top-scored with 38 in his first ODI in 18 months.
Arshdeep Singh took four wickets for 70, while Gurnoor Brar claimed three for 44. Anshul Kamboj earned man of the match honors for his figures of two for 22 in 10 overs. Gill praised the bowlers, describing their performance as magnificent.
Kohli, turning 38 the next day, was dismissed to deep square leg by Jacob Duffy. He exited the field waving his bat to the Indian fans. Gill called it a very good team performance, noting the quality of the bowling.
The five-match series continues in Wellington on Saturday.
Source: The Star
