India’s middle-order resilience found its hero in KL Rahul, who produced a commanding century in the second ODI against New Zealand, steering the team out of trouble and ending a two-year wait for a three-figure score in the format.
A timely rescue under pressure
With India reeling at 118 for 4, the contest appeared to be slipping away. Rahul responded with composure and authority at Rajkot, taking charge of the innings and dominating the bowling with precision and timing. His 112 off 93 balls, studded with 11 boundaries and a six, set the tone for a late surge.
Partnerships that changed the game
Rahul stitched vital partnerships with Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy, first stabilising the innings and then accelerating. From a precarious position, India climbed to 248 for 6 and eventually posted a competitive 284 for 7 in the allotted 50 overs.
Ending a long wait
The innings marked Rahul’s eighth ODI century and brought an end to a personal drought that had stretched over two years. Beyond the numbers, the knock stood out for its context—built under pressure, paced intelligently, and finished with intent.
Fitness behind the form
Rahul’s on-field intensity is underpinned by a disciplined fitness routine. A wicketkeeper-batsman expected to stay sharp for long spells, he follows a protein-rich non-vegetarian diet. While he avoids regular chicken, he prefers mutton and lamb, alongside eggs and meat, with the occasional indulgence in ghee roast—choices he credits for sustaining peak performance.
Karnataka star leads by example
As a senior batter from Karnataka, Rahul’s innings was a reminder of experience meeting preparation. His calm leadership in the middle and athleticism behind the stumps reaffirmed his value in the ODI set-up—an example of grit, fitness and timing coming together when it mattered most.