Daryl Mitchell made headlines once again in ODI cricket as he reached a significant milestone during the third ODI against India on Sunday. Playing at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore, Mitchell’s impressive century allowed him to match Babar Azam for the most 50-plus scores in ODIs since the beginning of 2023. The only player ahead of them is the renowned Virat Kohli, who continues to set benchmarks in the format.
In the match, India won the toss and opted to bowl first, putting immediate pressure on New Zealand. They lost Henry Nicholls without scoring and followed that up with Devon Conway’s dismissal for just five runs, leaving the Kiwis in a precarious position at 5 for 2 within two overs. Despite the early setbacks, Daryl Mitchell approached his innings with poise, showcasing remarkable patience and technique.
Mitchell’s calm demeanor at the crease allowed him to navigate the tough conditions while accumulating runs through well-placed shots rather than sheer power. He formed a crucial partnership with Will Young, who contributed 30 runs before being dismissed by a spectacular catch from Ravindra Jadeja. By the time Young was out, New Zealand was at 58 for 3, and Mitchell once again found himself tasked with stabilizing the innings.
As the match progressed, Mitchell partnered with Glenn Phillips, guiding New Zealand past the 200-run mark and steering the team towards a competitive total. His performance not only highlights his consistency but also places him alongside top players like Babar Azam and Pathum Nissanka for their prolific scoring in ODIs this year. With Kohli leading the charge, Mitchell is fast closing in on this elite company, underscoring his growing prominence in international cricket.
Mitchell’s remarkable achievement reflects not just individual prowess but the relentless spirit of the New Zealand team, showcasing their ability to recover and fight through challenging situations. With more matches to come, cricket fans will be keenly watching as he continues to chase further milestones alongside some of the game’s legends.