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

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India’s young fast-bowling sensation Harshit Rana produced a moment of sheer brilliance during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara, as he dismantled a threatening opening partnership with a perfectly disguised slower ball. Rana’s spell not only removed the well-set Henry Nicholls but also sent back Devon Conway in quick succession, swinging momentum firmly in India’s favour after a dominant start by the visitors.

After winning the toss, India opted to field first on what looked like a good batting surface. However, the decision initially appeared questionable as New Zealand’s openers made full use of the conditions. Conway and Nicholls batted with composure and authority, rotating strike efficiently while punishing loose deliveries. Their understanding in the middle was evident as they stitched together a commanding 117-run opening stand, putting early pressure on the Indian bowlers and silencing the home crowd in Vadodara.

Just when the partnership looked set to inflict serious damage, Rana produced a moment of tactical excellence in the 22nd over. After bowling a couple of short-of-length deliveries that were dispatched for boundaries, Rana cleverly set up Nicholls with a slower off-cutter. On the fourth ball of the over, Rana delivered a 113 kmph slower ball outside off stump. Nicholls, expecting pace, reached out to squeeze the ball through the off side.

Instead, he only managed a faint outside edge, and the ball ballooned towards the wicketkeeper. KL Rahul reacted sharply, diving to his left to complete a superb catch and break the dangerous stand. The dismissal immediately lifted India’s energy on the field and marked a crucial turning point in the innings.

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Rana was not done yet. Riding high on confidence, the young pacer returned in his very next over and delivered another decisive blow. On the final ball of the 24th over, he bowled a fullish delivery at 142.2 kmph that landed on the seam and jagged back in. Conway, who had raced to a well-made 56, attempted a drive with hard hands away from his body. The ball took a thick inside edge and crashed into the leg stump, leaving the New Zealand opener stunned.

One brings two for Harshit Rana and #TeamIndia!

New Zealand lose both their openers.

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/OcIPHEpvjr#INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2026

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