NEW DELHI: India's Mr. Dependable, KL Rahul, has etched a sensational hundred on a tough surface in Rajkot.
During the second ODI between India and New Zealand, when the big guns failed to score big in this crucial clash, Rahul has shown glimpses of brilliance.
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A sensational innings
Calm and Composed Centurion 💯
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2026
When the going gets tough, the tough gets going 😎
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/x1fEenI0xl#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank | @klrahul pic.twitter.com/vBEcwq73fb
KL Rahul came out to bat at number 5 and stood tall with his masterful technique and mix of aggression. Wickets kept falling at the other end, but Rahul steadied the innings with his 8th ODI ton.
He ends up scoring 112 runs in just 92 deliveries, which included 11 fours and a six, giving India a respectable total on the board.
Riding on form
Rahul has been riding on brilliant form in ODI cricket. Whether it was against South Africa a few weeks ago or in this series, he is yet to be dismissed in his last three outings.
KL Rahul has been undoubtedly one of the most prolific lower-order batters in recent times. Since 2025, he has scored the most runs in overs 41 to 50, showing his ability to finish games for the side.
Most ODI runs in Overs (41-50) since 2025:
--KL Rahul – 283 runs (SR: 140.09)
--Glenn Phillips – 244 runs (SR: 157.4)
--Janith Liyanage – 201 runs (SR: 147.8)
This was KL Rahul's 8th ODI century, his 2nd against New Zealand, his 3rd while batting at No. 5 or below, and his 3rd as a wicket-keeper.
KL Rahul vs New Zealand (ODIs)
--Innings: 10
--Runs: 469
--Average: 93.8
--Strike Rate: 111.13
--100s/50s: 2/1
--Highest Score: 112*