IND vs NZ 2026: Former New Zealand cricketer hails 'smart and mature' KL Rahul's versatile gameplay after Rajkot ton

Published - 15 Jan 2026, 15:46 IST | Updated - 15 Jan 2026, 15:48 IST

Former New Zealand cricketer Ian Smith has heaped praise on KL Rahul after the latter registered his eighth ODI ton in the second ODI of the series against New Zealand on January 14. Rahul stayed unbeaten on 112 off 92 in an innings which comprised 11 fours and a six.

Smith praised Rahul's ability to adapt to different batting slots and conditions. He also complimented the wicketkeeper-batter's abilities to stay till the end of the innings to capitalise on his good start.

"He's a very mature cricketer. He handles the situation well. Seen him open so many times. Seen him bat at six and we're seeing him bat in between. He's a very smart cricketer and he's got all the shots and he knows exactly when to release the brakes. He's got trust in his fellow players but he also knows, 'if I'm the one that's there, I've got to do the job to the end'," shared Smith while speaking on BCCI.tv.

Smith, who was in the commentary panel for both the matches, pointed out that even his fellow team members were emphasising how important it was to claim Rahul's wicket in both contests.

And we've seen him do it twice now. Once to finish a game and once to set up a total. We mentioned in commentary quite often throughout that New Zealand have to get him out. Simply have to get him out. And they couldn't," he added.

India enter the third ODI on the back of a defeat in Rajkot. New Zealand got past the finish line by seven wickets and 15 balls to spare, courtesy of a Daryl Mitchell ton that took the game away from the hosts. Both Rahul and Mitchell registered their eighth century in the format. Mitchell was awarded the Player of the Match award.

Rahul provides stability to the middle order: Ravi Shastri

Rahul, who has scored 141 runs in the series, will be a key batter as the Men in Blue will aim to clinch the series in Indore on January 18.