IND vs NZ [WATCH]: Harshit Rana deceives Henry Nicholls with a stunning slower ball in 1st ODI

IndiaYouthful sensation of fast bowling Harshit Rana He produced a moment of absolute brilliance during the first ODI against New Zealand At the BCA Stadium, Kutambi, Vadodara, where he broke up a dangerous opening partnership with a completely convincing slower ball. Rana’s spell didn’t just remove the good group Henry Nicholls But it was also returned Devon Conway In quick succession, the momentum swung strongly in India’s favor after the visitors’ dominant start.

India’s decision to back off backfires early on

After winning the toss, India chose to bowl first on what looked like a good batting surface. However, the decision initially looked in doubt as New Zealand’s opener took full advantage of the conditions. Conway and Nicholls fought with composure and authority, rotating the jab efficiently while punishing loose deliveries. Their understanding in the middle was evident as they put together a strong 117-run opening stand, putting early pressure on the Indian bowlers and silencing the home crowd in Vadodara.

beauty">Harshit Rana removes Henry Nicholls beautifully

Just when it looked like the partnership was about to do serious damage, Rana produced a moment of tactical excellence in the 22nd over. After bowling a couple of short deliveries that were sent for a boundary, Rana smartly set up Nicholls with a slower cutter. On the fourth ball of the over, Rana sent a slower ball at 113 kmph outside the off-stump. Nichols, anticipating speed, reached out to squeeze the ball through the out side.

Instead, he only managed a faint outside edge pass, and the ball bulged towards the wicket-keeper. Kuala Lumpur Rahul He reacted sharply, diving to his left to complete a brilliant catch and break a dangerous situation. The dismissal immediately lifted India’s energy on the field and served as a crucial turning point in the innings.

Also Read: IND vs NZ: This is why Rishabh Pant is not playing the first ODI

Rana hits again to remove Conway

Rana is not finished yet. Blessed with confidence, the young player came back in his next round and struck another decisive blow. On the last ball of the 24th over, he bowled a full delivery at 142.2 kmph and fell on the touchline and went back inside. Conway, who raced to 56 well, tried to drive with stiff hands away from his body. The ball took a thick inside edge and hit leg stump, stunning the New Zealand opener.

Here is the video:

One brings two for Harshit Rana and #TeamIndia!

New Zealand lost both their opening matches.

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– Bank of Credit and Commerce International (@BCCI) January 11, 2026

Also Read: Shubman Gill talks about ruling out T20 World Cup 2026 as India prepares for New Zealand ODIs