[WATCH] IND vs NZ 2026: Shreyas Iyer’s lightning throw cuts short Michael Bracewell’s stay

Indian vice-captain Shreyas Iyer produced a brilliant effort in the field during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11. His sharp presence of mind and athleticism resulted in a crucial run-out of New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell towards the end of the visitors’ innings, helping India keep the scoring under control.

The incident occurred in the 43rd over, bowled by Harshit Rana. On the final delivery of the over, Rana fired the ball into the blockhole, which Daryl Mitchell dug out towards long-on. Bracewell responded to Mitchell’s call for a second run, but he had to sprint hard to make his ground. Iyer stationed near the boundary, charged in swiftly, picked up the ball cleanly, and threw a perfect direct hit at the non-striker’s end. Bracewell fell just short of the crease, and the dismissal lifted the Indian fielding unit.

Only a direct hit could have resulted in Bracewell’s wicket, and Iyer executed it to perfection. The run-out proved to be a significant moment in the match, as Bracewell has a strong record against India, particularly in the latter stages of an innings. Removing him at that point was a major boost for India as they looked to restrict New Zealand to a manageable total.

Speaking about the match, Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bowl first, keeping the expected dew factor in mind. New Zealand made a solid start, putting together a 117-run opening partnership in 130 balls. Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls laid a strong foundation, putting pressure on the Indian bowlers in the early stages.

Conway scored 56 off 67 balls, which included six boundaries and a six, while Nicholls contributed 62 from 69 deliveries, striking eight fours. However, India made a strong comeback once both openers were dismissed, with the bowlers striking at regular intervals to stall New Zealand’s momentum.

Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay, Michael Bracewell, and Zakary Foulkes were dismissed cheaply, as the Indian bowlers maintained discipline and control. Daryl Mitchell also reached his half-century, attempting to push the total higher for the visitors.

India entered the series on the back of a 2-1 ODI series victory over South Africa and will now aim to seal another series win against the Black Caps before heading into the T20I leg on a positive note.