India head into the second ODI at Rajkot with a 1-0 series lead and a chance to clinch the trophy. After a high-scoring thriller in Vadodara where India successfully chased down 301, the action moves to the Niranjan Shah Stadium, a venue legendary for being a batting paradise.

While the veterans continue to lead the charge, the narrative of this series has shifted toward the young brigade and injury management. With the series on the line, the New Zealand face a “do-or-die” scenario to keep the three-match contest alive.

The Indian camp faces a tactical reshuffle following a significant injury blow, as all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a rib injury sustained during the opening match. In his absence, the selectors have handed a maiden ODI call-up to Ayush Badoniwho could potentially make his debut if the team management decides to bolster the batting depth on the flat Rajkot deck. India’s confidence remains high, however, thanks to the sublime form of Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill. After his match-winning 93 in the first ODI, Kohli finds himself on the verge of history, steadily closing in on Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most runs in the India-New Zealand rivalry.

For New Zealand, the primary objective is to find more penetration in their bowling attack. Despite posting a formidable 300-plus total in the opener, the Kiwi bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batters; while Kyle Jamieson impressed with a four-wicket haul, he lacked consistent support from the rest of the pack. On the batting front, although Daryl Mitchell and Devon Conway have shown great adaptability to Indian conditions, the visitors will be looking for more late-inning fireworks. Captain Michael Bracewell will be urging his middle order to accelerate more effectively in the final ten overs to ensure they can set or chase a target that puts the Indian powerhouse under real pressure.

Niranjan Shah Stadium Pitch Report

The Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot is renowned for hosting some of the flattest tracks in India, making it a certified batter’s paradise. With a staggering recent average ODI score of 322, fans should expect another high-octane run-fest. The surface offers true bounce and consistent pace, allowing batters to trust their technique and play through the line with ease. While spinners might extract a hint of grip during the middle overs, the combination of a lightning-fast outfield and relatively small boundaries offers little margin for error.

Under clear, sunny skies and a peak temperature of 28°C, the pitch will remain firm. However, the evening dew factor is the most critical variable. The moisture will make the ball difficult to grip for the side bowling second, rendering the toss decisive. Consequently, the captain winning the toss will almost certainly opt to bowl first to capitalize on the better batting conditions under the lights.

Niranjan Shah Stadium Stats and Records

• Total Matches: 7
• Matches won batting first: 6
• Matches won bowling first: 1
• Average 1st innings Score: 332
• Average 2nd innings Score: 254
• Highest total recorded: 435/5 (50 Ovs) by India Women vs Ireland Women
• Lowest total recorded: 131/10 (31.4 Ovs) by Ireland Women vs India Women
• Highest score chased: 241/4 (34.3 Ovs) by India Women vs Ireland Women
• Lowest score defended: 270/7 (50 Ovs) by South Africa vs India