In the second ODI against India, New Zealand secured a seven-wicket victory at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, with Daryl Mitchell playing a pivotal role. He faced 117 deliveries, amassing 131 runs, which included 11 fours and two sixes. Mitchell attributed his ability to counter spin to his practice on dusty wickets in Lincoln, stating, “There have been countless mornings spent in the South Island honing my game on prepared dusty wickets to strategize for conditions like these. This hard work often goes unnoticed, but it’s rewarding to see it pay off.” Currently, he trails behind Virat Kohli by just one point in the ICC Men’s ODI batting rankings. The 34-year-old expressed his passion for representing New Zealand and playing cricket globally, saying, “I love playing for my country and feel fortunate to compete in all three formats around the world.” Mitchell has particularly excelled in the Asian subcontinent, amassing 1,457 ODI runs at an impressive average of 56.03, including five centuries and six fifties. In 15 matches in India, he has scored 801 runs at an average of 66.75, featuring three centuries and three fifties. He acknowledged that New Zealand players are more accustomed to bouncy, grassy pitches, noting, “As New Zealanders, we grow up on lively surfaces and must adapt our game for international cricket. I’m confident in my approach to batting in these conditions, looking for ways to apply pressure on bowlers, whether through footwork, sweeps, or using the crease. It’s been a learning journey over the years,” he added.
