India’s fielding unit endured a frustrating start in the fourth ODI against New Zealand at Bay Oval on Friday, handing opener Will Young two significant reprieves in the space of just two deliveries. The missed opportunities occurred during the second over of the innings, with bowler Auqib Nabi left visibly disappointed as the tourists failed to capitalise on early pressure.
The sequence began on the fifth ball of the over when Young edged a delivery outside the off stump. Rohit Sharma, positioned at first slip, was unable to hold onto the chance. In a dramatic turn of events, the very next delivery saw Young edge the ball again, but wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan failed to secure the catch behind the stumps, granting the New Zealand batter a second life in as many balls.
Shreyas Iyer leads India as toss dominance continues
The match marked a significant leadership change for the visitors, with Shreyas Iyer stepping in as captain for his first ODI in charge. Iyer assumed the role after Shubman Gill departed the squad alongside several teammates to prepare for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, which is scheduled to commence next Thursday.
Despite the change in leadership, India’s remarkable run at the toss persisted. By calling tails successfully, Iyer ensured India has now won eight of the nine tosses throughout the combined T20I and ODI tour. Opting to bowl first, the new skipper introduced a reshuffled side, with Ruturaj Gaikwad making his first appearance of the series and Kuldeep Yadav returning to the bowling attack. Ishan Kishan took over the gloves from KL Rahul for this encounter.
New Zealand reshuffle squad amid injury concerns
New Zealand entered the fourth match of the series with a heavily modified lineup, necessitated by a combination of injuries and the departure of players to the Test squad. The Black Caps bolstered their batting order with the inclusions of Nick Kelly, Dean Foxcroft, and Finn Allen, while the pace attack was reinforced by the arrival of Kristian Clark and Matt Henry.
India currently holds a 2-0 lead in the five-match series and remains in a strong position to become the first touring side in seven years to secure an ODI series victory on New Zealand soil. Following a rain-affected start to the tour—which included a five-wicket win in Auckland, a four-run victory in Wellington, and an abandoned third match—conditions at Mount Maunganui are expected to remain clear, allowing for a full day of play.
