Sun Jan 18 08:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Nicholls and Conway’s Century Stand Gives New Zealand Solid Start Against India

The Story:

New Zealand openers Henry Nicholls and Devon Conway provided a strong foundation for their team in the 1st ODI against India at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara. After Indian captain Shubman Gill elected to field, Nicholls and Conway forged a 117-run opening partnership, both achieving half-centuries. This marked New Zealand’s first 100-plus opening stand away from home since 2019.

The Indian bowlers eventually broke the partnership. Harshit Rana dismissed Nicholls for 62 off 69 balls in the 22nd over, followed by Conway for 56 off 67 balls on the final ball of his next over.

Key Points:

  • Henry Nicholls scored 62 runs off 69 balls, including 8 fours.
  • Devon Conway scored 56 runs off 67 balls, including 6 fours and 1 six.
  • The opening partnership was 117 runs.
  • This was Nicholls’ maiden 50-plus score in India.
  • This was the first 100-plus opening stand for New Zealand against India in India since 1999.
  • This was the first 100-plus partnership by any side against India in India since March 2023.
  • Nicholls has scored 2,242 runs from 82 ODIs at an average of 35.03.
  • Conway has scored 1,671 runs from 41 ODIs at an average of 45.16.

Key Takeaways:

  • New Zealand’s opening partnership proved crucial in the early stages of the ODI.
  • India’s bowlers managed to regain control after the initial partnership.
  • Nicholls and Conway achieved significant milestones in their ODI careers.
  • The partnership highlighted a rare occurrence: a century stand against India on their home turf.

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