From Kuldeep to Krishna: 5 Key Players Behind India’s Loss to New Zealand in Rajkot ODI

New Delhi: The second ODI of the three-match series between India and New Zealand was held at Rajkot’s Narendra Modi Stadium on January 14. New Zealand defeated India by 7 wickets, leveling the series 1-1. India, after losing the toss, batted first and set a target of 285 runs. However, the Kiwi team chased it down in 47.3 overs, thanks to key contributions that India failed to contain.

Here’s a look at the five Indian players whose performances fell short and impacted the match outcome:

1. Kuldeep Yadav
India’s left-arm wrist-spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, proved expensive in the middle overs. Expected to play a crucial role, he ended with figures of 1 wicket for 82 runs in 10 overs, allowing New Zealand to build momentum.

2. Prasidh Krishna
Pace bowler Prasidh Krishna also struggled in Rajkot. He bowled 9 overs for 49 runs, taking just one wicket. Additionally, he dropped a key catch of Daryl Mitchell, who went on to play a match-winning unbeaten 131.

3. Ravindra Jadeja
Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja failed to make an impact with both bat and ball. Coming in at a crucial stage, he managed only 27 runs before getting out. With the ball, he bowled 8 overs for 44 runs without claiming a wicket.

4. Shreyas Iyer
India’s vice-captain Shreyas Iyer had a quiet outing with the bat. He faced 17 balls but could manage only 8 runs, failing to stabilize the innings.

5. Mohammed Siraj
Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was unable to make breakthroughs against the New Zealand batting lineup. He bowled 9 overs, conceding 41 runs without taking a wicket.

India’s inability to capitalize on these key players’ performances ultimately allowed New Zealand to dominate the chase. Had these players delivered closer to expectations, the match outcome could have been different.