IND vs NZ 1st ODI Live: Gill Wins Toss, NZ Batting First

The three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand kicked off today at Vadodara’s historic Kotambi Stadium (BCA Stadium), marking its debut as a men’s international venue.

India captain Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bowl first, citing evening dew as a major factor that could make chasing easier. This ends India’s long toss-losing streak from previous years—fans are calling it a fresh 2026 start!

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli make strong comebacks to the ODI side, boosting the top order. However, a big blow: Rishabh Pant ruled out with a side strain from nets; Dhruv Jurel replaces him as backup keeper.

New Zealand, led by Michael Bracewell, field a youngish side prepping for T20 World Cup 2026—missing stars like Rachin Ravindra.

Explosive Opening Stand Broken

New Zealand openers Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls built a solid 117-run partnership, both reaching fifties on a flat, batting-friendly pitch.

Harshit Rana turned the game with a double strike: first Conway (56) bowled via a clever slower ball, then Nicholls (62) caught behind by KL Rahul. The crowd erupted!

Mohammed Siraj added pressure by dismissing Will Young, leaving NZ at 126/2 before spinners took over.

Kuldeep Yadav’s Spin Magic

Kuldeep Yadav redeemed early drops with crucial wickets. He dismissed Glenn Phillips (12) in the 33rd over—floated delivery chipped straight to Shreyas Iyer at cover.

NZ reached 180/4 by 35 overs, with Daryl Mitchell steady but under pressure. Kuldeep’s variations and flight have India back in control.

Washington Sundar left the field with a minor strain; Nitish Kumar Reddy subbed in.

Fan Reactions Explode Online

#INDvNZ is trending nationwide. Fans praise Harshit Rana’s middle-overs mastery and Kuldeep’s comeback.

One viral tweet captured the buzz:

One brings two for Harshit Rana and #TeamIndia! New Zealand lose both their openers. 🔥

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2026

Another fan on Rana’s variations: “Middle overs masterclass! 🎯”

Strategy & What’s Next

India’s six-bowler combo (three seam, three spin) suits subcontinental conditions. Dew could make the second innings tricky for NZ bowlers.

India target restricting NZ under 280-300, then chase with RoKo firepower. NZ need a big finish from Mitchell and Bracewell.

This series sets the tone for India’s busy 2026 ODI calendar (18 matches ahead).

Stay locked to TrendPulse for live updates, full scorecard, and post-match highlights—this one’s got fireworks!