Indiayoung fast bowling sensation Harshit Rana Performed extremely well during the first ODI against new zealand At the BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara, when he demolished a dangerous opening partnership with a perfectly disguised slow ball. Rana’s magic not only brought down a good set of henry nichols but also sent back devon conway The momentum quickly shifted in India’s favor after an impressive start from the visitors.
India’s decision to bowl early backfired
After winning the toss, India decided to field first on a good batting surface. However, this decision initially looked questionable as New Zealand’s openers made full use of the conditions. Conway and Nicholls batted with composure and authority, rotating the strike expertly while punishing loose balls. His understanding in the middle was evident as he stitched a formidable 117-run opening partnership that put early pressure on the Indian bowlers and silenced the home crowd in Vadodara.
Harshit Rana beautifully dismissed Henry Nicholls
Just when it looked like the partnership was about to cause serious damage, Rana produced a moment of tactical excellence in the 22nd over. After bowling a few short balls which were sent to the boundary, Rana cleverly set up Nicholls with a slower off-cutter. On the fourth ball of the over, Rana bowled a slow ball of 113 kmph outside the off stump. Nicholls, hoping for momentum, moved forward to press the ball from the off side.
Instead, he could only take a light outside edge and the ball went towards the wicketkeeper. KL Rahul responded sharply, diving to his left to complete a brilliant catch and break the dangerous stand. The dismissal immediately boosted India’s energy on the field and marked a turning point in the innings.
Also read: IND vs NZ: For this reason Rishabh Pant is not playing the first ODI!
Rana attacks again to remove Conway
Rana’s work was not completed yet. Full of confidence, the young fast bowler came back in his very next over and delivered another decisive blow. On the last ball of the 24th over, he bowled a full ball at 142.2 kmph which landed on the seam and came back in. Conway, who had run well after scoring 56, attempted to drive with hard hands away from his body. The ball took a thick inside edge and hit the leg stump, leaving the New Zealand opening batsman stunned.
Here is the video:
One brings two for Harshit Rana and #TeamIndia,
New Zealand lost both its openers.
Update ▶️ https://t.co/OcIPHEpvjr#INDvNZ , @IDFCFIRSTBANK pic.twitter.com/gSzvDD40XU
– BCCI (@BCCI) 11 January 2026
Also read: Shubman Gill said on being out of T20 World Cup 2026, India is ready for New Zealand ODI
