KL Rahul once again became the hero for India in the second ODI against New Zealand in Rajkot on 14 January. Batting at his preferred No. 5 position, KL Rahul came in when the team was in big trouble at 118 for 4 after the early wickets of Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli fell.
KL Rahul scored 8th ODI century to save India in 2nd ODI against New Zealand
The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman first stabilized the innings by making a 73-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. After Jadeja’s dismissal, he joined Nitish Kumar Reddy and added another crucial 57 runs off 49 balls.
Even though Nitish and Harshit Rana were out in quick succession, Rahul took India forward by cultivating the strike and cleverly managing the innings. He completed his century by hitting a six on the last ball of the 49th over and took India to a strong score of 284 runs for 7 wickets in 50 overs against New Zealand.
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His incredible 112* innings in the ongoing second ODI against the Black Caps in Rajkot included 11 fours and a six. This was Rahul’s 8th ODI century for India and his 3rd as a wicketkeeper.
Rahul’s signature whistle celebration in Rajkot goes viral
Meanwhile, Rahul celebrated the century in a special way for his daughter, taking off his helmet and left glove before doing his signature whistle celebration.
The star batsman placed three fingers on his mouth while picking up the bat. He greeted the crowd before resuming the game.
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KL Rahul scored his 8th ODI century #TeamIndia In strong position#INDvNZ | Second ODI LIVE NOW https://t.co/mJ3SChcj3i pic.twitter.com/1zfq06ydH6
β Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) 14 January 2026
This was not the first time that the Karnataka batsman had done this unique celebration, he had done the same during the Ahmedabad Test against West Indies last year. Notably, Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty have a daughter named Ivarah, who was born in March 2025.
Gautam Gambhir praised Rahul’s brilliant century
Furthermore, Rahul’s brilliant century earned him a special appreciation from Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and the clip went viral online.
As he walked towards the Indian dressing room with Mohammed Siraj, Gambhir welcomed Rahul with a warm smile, congratulated him and patted him on the back for his brilliant innings that saved India from defeat.
– Drizzyat12Kennyat8 (@45kennyat7PM) 14 January 2026
KL Rahul gave inspiring advice to young cricketers
Recently, KL Rahul interacted with young cricketers in an Instagram video, sharing his experiences and advice. The 33-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman answered the questions of aspiring players. When asked what to do when opportunities are scarce, Rahul urged them to be patient, work hard and always be ready for their opportunity.
Also read: KL Rahul becomes India’s ‘Mr. Dependable’ after his brilliant century against New Zealand in Rajkot
“You will definitely get a chance to showcase your talent, be it a domestic, international or local tournament. You just have to work hard and be ready when the opportunity comes and grab it with both hands. As cricketers, it’s the only thing we can do,” Rahul said in a video shared on the Indian cricket team’s account on Instagram.
“It’s a tough phase for everyone when we don’t get a chance, but everyone has to go through that phase. No one can be on top forever. There will be anger and frustration, but try to get over it and do what is in your control, and leave the rest to God. Whenever God gives you a chance, use it wisely,” the right-handed batsman said.
