KL Rahul's award turns into a gift for Hnry Stadium staff member
KL Rahul produced a thoughtful moment after India’s second ODI against New Zealand in Wellington on November 7, gifting his smartphone prize to a female member of the staff at Hnry Stadium.
The India wicketkeeper-batter handed over the phone he had received as the ‘Game Changer of the Match’ reward, turning an individual prize into a special gesture for someone working behind the scenes at the venue.
New Zealand vs India, 2nd ODI: HIGHLIGHTS
The gesture offered a heartwarming end to an otherwise tense afternoon for India. Rahul had played a crucial role in keeping the visitors’ chase alive, showing patience as wickets continued to fall around him.
RAHUL HOLDS FIRM IN TRICKY CHASE
India’s bowlers had done their job by dismissing New Zealand for 134, with Gurnoor Brar claiming four wickets. But the batting line-up struggled to make the most of the opportunity. Shubman Gill fell for a golden duck, Virat Kohli managed just seven, while Rohit Sharma departed for 23.
Rahul and Shreyas Iyer tried to steady the innings with a 46-run stand for the fifth wicket. Iyer made 30, while Rahul remained unbeaten on 26 as India reached 113/7 in 26 overs. With 22 runs still required, rain brought the chase to a halt. India were four runs ahead of the DLS par score and secured a four-run victory, taking a 2-0 lead in the series.
INDIA EYE BETTER BATTING DISPLAY
Despite the win, India’s batting collapse will remain a concern heading into the third ODI. The bowlers had put them in a commanding position, but the top order’s failure and the lower order’s inability to finish the chase meant rain ultimately came to their rescue.
The third ODI will be played in Hamilton on November 10. India will have a chance to seal the series, but will also want a more convincing batting performance after making such hard work of a modest target.
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