India defeated New Zealand by 12 runs in their first ODI to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Shubman Gill scored his maiden double century to help India put up 349 for the loss of eight by the end of their innings.
But, New Zealand had an impressive batting order themselves, and put up a strong fight until the end. Michael Bracewell scored 140 off of 78 deliveries to keep the visitors in the hunt for the win, but fell short by little.
India defeat New Zealand in first ODI to lead series
The first innings was a one-man show for the most part, as Shubman Gill scored 208 runs from 149 balls. The next best score on the sheet was from the Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, who put up 34 from 38. Gill might have just settled the debate for the opening spot, as he has been in phenomenal form for the last few games. And his double century will certainly put an end to any further objections for the foreseeable future.
Gill became the youngest player in ODI history to score a double century. But he wasn’t the only player to put up three digits.
Mohammed Siraj picked up four wickets for India, and with New Zealand under serious pressure at 131/6 at 29 overs, the partnership between Bracewell and Mitchell Santner ensued. The two put up a record 162 runs in 105 deliveries for the seventh wicket to fight back into the game.
Santner scored 57 off 45 while Bracewell put up 140. However, Siraj and co were able to somehow overcome the late response from the Kiwis to win the game. After a thrilling first encounter between the two teams, the second ODI will be played in Raipur on Saturday.
