IND v New Zealand [WATCH]: Harshit Rana deceives Henry Nicholls with a superb slower ball in the 1st ODI

Indiathe young fast bowling sensation Harshit Rana produced a moment of pure genius in the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium, Kotambi, Vadodara, as he dismantled a menacing opening partnership with a perfectly disguised slower ball. Rana’s fate not only suppressed the whole Henry Nicholls but also returned Devon Conway in quick succession, swinging firmly in India’s favor after a dominant start from the visitors.

India’s decision to bowl backfires early

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

Harshit Rana removes Henry Nicholls with a beauty

Just when the partnership looked set to inflict serious damage, Rana produced a moment of tactical excellence in the 22nd over. After bowling a few short deliveries that were dispatched towards the boundaries, Rana smartly set up Nicholls with a slower trimmer. On the fourth ball of the over, Rana bowled a slower ball of 113 kmph outside off stump. Nicholls, expecting pace, reached out to flick the ball offside.

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

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Rana strikes again to eliminate Conway

Rana wasn’t finished yet. Buoyed by his confidence, the young leader came back on his very next pass and delivered another decisive blow. On the last ball of the 24th over, he bowled a full delivery at 142.2 kmph which landed on the seam and came back jagged. Conway, who had run to a well-rounded 56, attempted a hard-hand drive away from his body. The ball took a thick inside edge and crashed into leg stump, leaving the New Zealand opener stunned.

Here is the video:

We bring two for Harshit Rana and #TeamIndia!

New Zealand lost its first two matches.

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– BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2026

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