Flashback: IND vs NZ – Yusuf Pathan’s miraculous 123* takes India over the line

India and New Zealand have always produced competitive series in ODI cricket. Both sides are set to resume their rivalry from 18th January as they commence a 3-match ODI series. Here is a look back on a few of the most memorable individual performances from past India vs New Zealand ODI encounters:-

Bangalore, 2010

India had already pocketed the 5-match ODI series heading into the fourth encounter in Bangalore. Captain Gautam Gambhir won the toss and asked New Zealand to bat first. James Franklin, batting at number six, smashed 98 off 69 balls. He was supported by Scott Styris (46), Ross Taylor (44) and Brendon McCullum (42). Yusuf Pathan claimed 3/49 while R Ashwin and Ashish Nehra snared two wickets each. New Zealand reached 315/7 in their 50 overs.

Yusuf’s mayhem

India’s opening partnership, Gautam Gambhir and Parthiv Patel, added 67 runs in the first 9.4 overs. Andy McKay struck twice in an over to send back Gambhir and Virat Kohli. India soon faltered to 108/4 with Nathan McCullum getting among wickets. Pathan walked out to bat with Rohit Sharma at the other end.

Batting ruthlessly, Pathan carted the New Zealand bowling attack to all corners. He did not even spare the rooftop with his towering sixes. The Kiwi bowlers had no clue about stopping this onslaught. He brought up his century in 78 balls and proceeded to score 123* in 96 balls. With the help of 7 fours and 7 sixes, he tore into the Blackcaps bowling unit. India completed the target with seven balls remaining. Yusuf Pathan was, of course, the Player of the Match with a once-in-a-lifetime all-round performance.