Key learnings from India's win in second ODI against Kiwis
India took a 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand, as they thrashed the hosts by 90 runs at the Bay Oval. Rohit Sharma top scored with a knock of 87 and his opening partner Shikhar Dhawan amassed 66. India posted 324/4, before bowling the Kiwis out for 234. Here are key learnings from the match as India showed their dominance.
India one of the World Cup favorites
India will be aiming to do well in the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019 after earning impressive victories, away from home. Both, the 2-1 series win in Australia and the 2-0 lead against the Kiwis have given India the platform to build upon. India have eight more ODIs to play ahead of the World Cup and they look as a team brimming with confidence.
Kuldeep Yadav can become India's greatest spinner in ODIs
Kuldeep Yadav delivered another impressive performance in the ongoing series. After taking four wickets in Napier, he was once again on top of his game on Saturday, as he took 4/45 to dent the Kiwis. Kuldeep took his fifth four-wicket haul in just his 37th ODI. His phenomenal rise and impressive stats prove that he has the potential to become India's greatest ODI spinner.
MS Dhoni's form a big boost
MS Dhoni has continued from where he left off in Australia. In second ODI, Dhoni amassed a quick-fire 33-ball 48*. 2019 has seen Dhoni get off to a strong start and his form bodes well for India. He came into the series against Australia without much game time. But Dhoni has got back to form and his average in 2019 is 241.00.
Rayudu still looks a bit unsure
This was another opportunity for Ambati Rayudu to come and show why he deserves to bat at number four in the World Cup. Rayudu, who scored a nervous 13* in Napier, slammed a 49-ball 47. One would have expected him to up the ante once Virat Kohli was dismissed, but he slowed things down. He looks a bit unsettled at the moment.
New Zealand need to pull up their socks
New Zealand have not been able to give a solid account of themselves. Fans expected the Kiwis to put up a stern fight, but they have faltered in their own backyard. They had enjoyed some good form in ODIs in 2018, but their weaknesses have been exposed. If New Zealand want to do well in the World Cup, then they need to act responsibly.
