India began their 186‑run chase against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland with a steady start, though the loss of Rohit Sharma for a duck hampered their progression. Rain disrupted the rhythm at 54/1 after 10.5 overs, leaving the visitors stranded 132 runs short from a total of 49.1 overs.
Earlier, India’s pace attack displayed considerable firepower, dismissing New Zealand for 185 in 40.2 overs. Arshdeep Singh took four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar claimed three and Anshul Kamboj added two.
Tim Seifert topped New Zealand’s tally with 38, supported by Glenn Phillips’ 30 and Daryl Mitchell’s 28. Nonetheless, regular wickets curtailed the middle order’s potential for a big partnership.
Blair Tickner injected late brilliance, scoring 34 off just 23 deliveries including four sixes, which pushed New Zealand toward a competitive total after their middle order faltered.
In the Indian chase, Rohit Sharma’s early duck gave way to a strong response from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli. Kohli was particularly dynamic, hitting two fours in the ninth over and a six off a sixth in the 11th. Their partnership with Gill surpassed the 50‑run mark. Gill, playing more cautiously, adeptly navigated the bounce and turn presented by the New Zealand pacers.
Rain Delay and Its Impact on the Series
If rain prevents further play and the first ODI is abandoned, it will be declared a no‑result with no winner for either side. The tournament advances to the second ODI, where both teams will aim to establish a lead.
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