The threat of rain loomed over the second ODI match between India and New Zealand, scheduled for Saturday, November 7, in Wellington. The weather once again created problems for the match, as the first match of the series was also marred by bad weather. Changes in weather conditions began to affect the preparation of both teams even a day before the game.
On Friday morning in Wellington, there was light but continuous rain. This forced both teams to adjust their training plans. Instead of practicing at Henry Stadium, which is the venue for the match, the teams were supposed to hold sessions at Basin Reserve. However, due to the rain, New Zealand moved its training to the indoor area of Wellington College, while the Indian team completely canceled its practice.
The risk of rain persists on the day of the match. According to AccuWeather forecasts, the probability of rain in the morning is 60%, and in the afternoon, it is 55%. This means that the game may be interrupted due to precipitation.
The first ODI match between India and New Zealand, held in Auckland, was also affected by rain. The match started with a ten-minute delay. During the Indian innings, rain interrupted the game twice. Since the game was paused for approximately an hour and forty minutes, India's target was changed. Initially, the Indian team was set a target of 186 runs for 50 overs, but after the rain, it was adjusted to a target of 143 runs for 32 overs.
The Indian team won by five wickets thanks to the brilliant performance of Virat Kohli. Kohli scored 74 runs off 51 balls. Additionally, Anshul Kamboj took two wickets, scoring 22 runs in 10 overs, and was named player of the match.
With the victory in the first match, India leads the three-match ODI series 1-0. New Zealand will aim to level the score in Wellington, but they will also have to face weather difficulties. The third match of the series will take place on November 10 in Hamilton, and the fourth and fifth ODIs will be held on November 13 and 15 respectively in Mount Maunganui.
