KL Rahul produced a masterclass under pressure in the second ODI against New Zealand in Rajkot, crafting an unbeaten 112 that not only rescued India from
a precarious position but also showcased his growing stature as a dependable middle-order anchor.
But beyond the runs and the recovery act, it was his distinctive celebration after reaching the century that grabbed equal attention, leaving fans buzzing on social media.
Rahul walked in with India wobbling at 118 for 4, following the rapid dismissals of Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Virat Kohli. Returning to his preferred No. 5 role, he once again transformed into the team's crisis solver-calm at first, commanding later. His innings was a perfect blend of caution and flair, laced with 11 fours and a powerful six.
The wicketkeeper-batter first steadied the innings with Ravindra Jadeja, constructing a composed 73-run partnership that halted New Zealand's momentum. After Jadeja's departure, Rahul seamlessly switched gears, adding another vital 57 with Nitish Kumar Reddy. When India lost Nitish and Harshit Rana in quick succession, Rahul took complete control, expertly farming the strike in the final overs.
KL Rahul Completed His Classy Hundred With A Six And Also Did A Hundred Celebration For His Baby Girl, Evarah 😭🤍pic.twitter.com/cHYEigrB2Y
- 𝐀•ᴷᴸ ᴿᵃʰᵘˡ ˢᵗᵃⁿ (@123Centurion__) January 14, 2026
He reached his hundred in dramatic fashion, launching a six off the last ball of the 49th over. What followed was the moment that lit up the stadium and the internet: Rahul removed his helmet, slipped off his left glove, and performed a signature celebration that he has often reserved for his most meaningful milestones. While he did not share the inspiration behind the gesture this time, it instantly became the talking point of the match.
This knock further solidified Rahul's credentials in the middle order. Once an opener, he has transitioned seamlessly into a finisher. Wednesday's hundred was his third at No. 5, taking his average at the position to an impressive 64.21 with a strike rate nearing 99. His 1477 runs from 33 innings at the spot reflect consistency and adaptability, two qualities India heavily relies on.
Rahul's century was also historic-he became the first Indian batter to score an ODI hundred in Rajkot. His unbeaten 112 anchored India to a fighting total of 284/7 after an early collapse. With form, flair, and that eye-catching celebration, KL Rahul once again proved why he remains one of India's most vital assets in white-ball cricket.
