New Delhi, Jan. 11 -- India launched their 2026 ODI campaign in style, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a tense chase of 301 at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara on Sunday (January 11). Veteran Virat Kohli's commanding 93 off 91 balls laid the foundation, while KL Rahul's cool-headed unbeaten 29 off 21 balls sealed a nail-biting finish. Captain Shubman Gill registered a solid 56, helping India take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell won the toss and opted to bat first on a fresh pitch. Openers Devon Conway (56) and Henry Nicholls (62) forged a solid 117-run stand, setting a strong platform. Daryl Mitchell then played a crucial unbeaten knock of 84 off 71 balls, smashing three sixes and five ...