Daryl Mitchell's batting artistry was once again on display during a captivating top-of-the-table battle between India and New Zealand in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22. Mitchell cracked his maiden ODI World Cup century and guiding the BlackCaps towards a competitive total in the picturesque setting of the HPCA Stadium.
The remarkable century etched Mitchell's name in cricket history, making him only the second New Zealand batter to achieve a century against India in a World Cup match. This accomplishment harkens back to Glenn Turner's unbeaten 114 in Manchester in 1975. Since that iconic innings at Old Trafford, 17 Kiwi centuries were registered, but none were against the Indian team, highlighting the rarity of Mitchell's achievement.
Mitchell has been on a roll in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023. He started with scoring 48 against the Netherlands in Hyderabad and a vital 89 not out against Bangladesh on the challenging pitches of Chennai.
Mitchell's happiness was palpable when he removed his helmet, gesturing to the dressing room while celebrating his century. The entire team reciprocated with a standing ovation, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of a player who has consistently fortified New Zealand's middle order over the past two years.
When Mitchell took to the crease, New Zealand was in a precarious situation at 19/2 in the 8th over. Hardik Pandya-less Indian bowling brigade seemed formidable with Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami managing to dismiss the key New Zealand openers, Devon Conway and Will Young early.
Mitchell then partnered with Rachin Ravindra to patiently navigate New Zealand's innings. Their combined efforts culminated in a 100-run partnership in just 102 balls. This collaboration resulted in a record-setting third-wicket stand of 159 for New Zealand against India in World Cup encounters.
Demonstrating strategic acumen, the duo effectively countered India's spin attack, especially targeting Kuldeep Yadav. Mitchell's assertive play against Kuldeep, including two sixes in the spinner's initial overs.
By the time Mitchell reached his century, he had already displayed his aggressive intent with four sixes and seven boundaries. In contrast, the promising Rachin who had previously marked his World Cup debut with a century against England in Ahmedabad on October 5, fell short of his second hundred, succumbing at 75 to Mohammed Shami.
But Mitchell didn't stop there, he went on to notch 130 off 127 to steer New Zealand to a competitive total of 273 despite Shami's fifer.
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