India and New Zealand are set to face off in the second ODI of their series at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. India leads the series 1-0 after a victory in the first match. The match is scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM IST, with the toss taking place at 1:00 PM IST.

Pitch Report

The pitch at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot is known to heavily favor batters, promising a high-scoring affair. It's considered a "belter of a pitch" and a "batter's paradise" due to its flat, hard surface and consistent bounce, allowing batsmen to confidently play their shots. The ball comes nicely onto the bat, ensuring good carry and minimal unpredictable movement, which allows stroke-makers to score freely.

Historically, teams batting first have had a significant advantage at this venue, winning all four ODI matches played here. The average first innings score is a high 322 runs. In three of the four ODIs, the team batting first has posted totals of over 300 runs. The highest ODI total at the venue is 352, scored by Australia.

While the pitch is generally batting-friendly, bowlers who maintain the right line and length can extract some assistance. Spinners may find some turn as the game progresses, particularly in the second innings when cracks may begin to open up. Dew could also be a factor, potentially making it challenging for the team fielding second, as it can affect the spinners' grip. Winning the toss and choosing to bat first might be a strategic advantage.

Weather Forecast

The weather forecast for Rajkot on Wednesday predicts clear and sunny conditions, ideal for a cricket match. There is no chance of rain. The temperature is expected to reach a maximum of 27°C (80°F) during the day and drop to a minimum of 15.5°C (51°F) in the evening. Humidity is expected to be low, around 24%. A gentle northern breeze of 11 km/h is expected, providing comfortable conditions. The temperature difference between day and night could lead to dew formation, potentially influencing the game.