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newspoint|13-01-2026
Team India received a vibrant welcome upon their arrival in Rajkot ahead of the second ODI against New Zealand, with star pacer Arshdeep Singh stealing the spotlight by breaking into a dance to the beats of local music.
The Indian squad reached Rajkot on Monday following their victory in the series opener in Vadodara. As the team arrived at the hotel, they were greeted with bouquets, garlands, and a cultural performance featuring dhol beats and garba steps, reflecting Gujarat’s rich traditions. Arshdeep, known for his cheerful personality, joined in the celebrations and showcased his dance moves, drawing smiles from teammates and staff.
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Other members of the Indian squad, including Harshit Rana, captain Shubman Gill, Kuldeep Yadav, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, were also present during the welcome ceremony. The players were seen wearing the team’s official training kit as they made their way into the hotel alongside members of the support staff.
The second ODI between India and New Zealand is scheduled to be played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday, January 14. India currently leads the three-match series 1-0 after securing a convincing win in the opening game.
The Men in Blue will be eager to continue their momentum and seal the series in Rajkot. The third and final ODI of the series will be played in Indore on Sunday, January 18.
Kohli, Gill half-centuries guide India to series-opening win.India began the series on a positive note with a solid performance in the first ODI held in Vadodara. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and managed to restrict New Zealand to a total of 300/8 in their allotted 50 overs with Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls putting up a century stand. Daryl Mitchell led the charge with scoring 84 off 71 deliveries. Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets each, while Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with one.
When India came to bat, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill added 39 runs for the opening stand before Rohit was dismissed in the ninth over by Kyle Jamieson. Walking into his 309th ODI game Kohli led the charge for India alongside Gill in the chase and the duo putting up a 118 run stand from 107 balls.
Gill scored a fluent half-century, making 56 off 71 balls, which included three boundaries and two sixes. Shreyas Iyer, returning from injury, later joined Kohli in the middle after Gill’s dismissal. The pair added 77 runs, with Iyer contributing 49 off 47 deliveries.
Kohli smashed eight boundaries and a six in his knock but missed out on his century, scoring with 93 off 91. KL Rahul's unbeaten 29 and Harshit's 29 cameos helped India get over the line and win by four wickets and an over to spare.
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