India defeated New Zealand by 12 runs in the first One Day International (ODI) match of a three-match series held in India. The match was highlighted by a stunning performance from Indian player Shubman Gill, who scored 208 runs from 149 balls.

Gill, at the age of 23 years and 132 days, broke a record for being the youngest player to hit a double century in an ODI event. He is also the eighth person and the fifth Indian to achieve such feat. Speaking after the match, he said: “I wasn’t thinking of the 200, but once I hit the sixes at the end, I did feel that I could get it. It definitely gives me a sense of satisfaction, but the game went much closer than I expected.”

Gill’s double century was helped by efforts by Rohit Sharma (34), who has three double centuries, and Suryakumar Yadav (31). 

The New Zealand team fought in an attempt to block India, with efforts from Michael Bracewell, who made 140 of 78 balls, and Mitchell Satner. However, they were unable to match the scoring rate set by India, ultimately falling short of their target by 12 runs.

Gill’s impressive performance earned him the player of the match award, and his innings will be remembered as one of the greatest in ODI history. It was a great start for the Indian team in the series, and they will be looking to continue their winning momentum in the next match.

The New Zealand team will also be looking to bounce back and level the series in the next match. With the series tied at 1-1, the upcoming matches are sure to be exciting and competitive.

Overall, it was a fantastic match that lived up to the expectations of fans and experts. It was a great display of batting skills by the Indian team. It was a great start for the Indian team in the series, and they will be looking to continue their winning momentum in the next match. 

Leon Osamor