India beat New Zealand by four wickets in Vadodara ODI as Kohli anchors chase in 301-run target

High-scoring opener to the series in Vadodara

India opened their ODI series against New Zealand with a four-wicket win in Vadodara on January 11, 2026, chasing down a target of 301 with six balls to spare, according to the match report.

New Zealand posted 300/8, giving their bowlers a defendable total on paper, but India’s batting depth and a controlled chase helped them cross the line at 306/6 in 49 overs.

Kohli’s innings sets the tone

Virat Kohli anchored the chase with a high-impact 93, guiding India through key phases while managing risk, and he was named Player of the Match. The report notes that his innings was central to keeping India in control even as wickets fell at intervals.

India’s chase had momentum swings—periods of smooth accumulation followed by moments where New Zealand pulled the game tighter—yet the required rate stayed within reach for most of the innings.

Late pressure, but India close it out

The report describes how late wickets created tension near the finish, but India’s lower order stayed composed enough to finish the chase and secure a series-opening win.

For New Zealand, the effort was competitive: 300 on the board plus late breakthroughs gave them a chance, but India’s top-order base and calm finishing ultimately made the difference.

Why this result matters

A successful chase of 301 in the first match sets the tone for the series by reinforcing India’s ability to hunt down big totals at home conditions. For New Zealand, the match offered clear positives with both bat and ball, while also highlighting areas to tighten—particularly in containing set batters through the middle overs.

With the series format placing extra importance on early momentum, India’s win in Vadodara on January 11, 2026 provided them an immediate edge and confidence for the remaining fixtures.