Star India all-rounder Naman Dhir finished things off in style as the Men in Blue sealed a five-wicket victory in the first ODI against New Zealand. With this win, they went 1-0 up in the five-match series.

India initially bowled New Zealand out for just 185 in 40.2 overs after choosing to bowl first. However, rain interrupted the match twice, eventually setting India a revised target of 143 runs from 32 overs. The visitors got over the line comfortably in just 22.4 overs.

On the fourth ball of the 23rd over, Naman Dhir smashed a powerful boundary to wrap things up. Nathan Smith bowled a short delivery that Dhir pulled with authority over mid-wicket. He then walked up to KL Rahul, who was at the other end, and the two batters congratulated each other on the win. They also shook hands with the New Zealand players.

Veteran batter Virat Kohli was the star of the show, delivering once again in a run chase. He slammed 74 runs off just 51 balls, hitting 13 fours and a six at a strike rate of 145.1. Skipper Shubman Gill also played a handy 37-run knock.

India will aim to go 2-0 up in Wellington

The second ODI will be played on Saturday, November 7, at the Sky Stadium in Wellington. India will aim to carry the momentum from their win in the first game and replicate the result in Wellington to go 2-0 up.

The Men in Blue last won an ODI series in New Zealand during their tour in 2018/19, when they sealed the five-match series 4-1. They have faced defeats the last two times, losing 0-3 in 2019/20 and 0-1 in 2022/2023.

That said, they will want to avenge the last two defeats and win the series this time around. India also came into this ODI series on the back of a victory in the T20Is. The tour began with a five-match T20I series, which the visitors won 3-2. A win in the second game in Wellington will strengthen their position in the series and give them a real shot at a series win.