On a pitch where even stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli struggled, Daryl Mitchell produced a masterclass. The New Zealand batter smashed an unbeaten 131 off 117 balls to power his side to victory in the Rajkot ODI, handling both spin and pace with remarkable ease—including confidently taking on Kuldeep Yadav.

So how does a New Zealander dominate on Indian pitches so consistently? Mitchell has revealed the work that goes on far from the spotlight.

Training on dusty pitches—far from the cameras

Mitchell explained that the New Zealand Cricket has invested in preparing players for subcontinent conditions by creating dusty, low-bounce practice pitches back home.

“I spent many mornings in a tent in Lincoln, South Island, on dusty pitches, trying to work out how to plan a game in this part of the world,” Mitchell said.
“These are the things people don’t see—the hard work away from the TV lights. It’s nice when it pays off.”

That behind-the-scenes grind, he says, has helped him read conditions quicker and bat with clarity in India.

Numbers that explain the dominance

Mitchell’s recent record against India is exceptional:

• Last four matches vs India: 130, 134, 84, 131*

• ODIs in India: 801 runs in 15 matches at 66.75, with 3 centuries and 3 fifties

• Asian subcontinent (overall): 1,457 ODI runs at 56.03 (5 hundreds)

• Pakistan: 576 runs in 12 matches at 48 (2 hundreds)

The “weapons” he uses in Asia

Mitchell says adapting is everything, especially coming from New Zealand’s grassy, bouncy wickets.

“I’m trying to find ways to put pressure on bowlers—using my feet, playing the sweep, or working the crease. There are lots of ways to do it.”

That mix—decisive footwork, smart sweeps, and crease management—has allowed him to dictate terms even on slow, turning tracks.

What’s next

Mitchell’s next test comes in Indore, where New Zealand will look to finish the series strong against the India national cricket team. The third and final ODI is scheduled for January 18—and given his form, India’s bowlers will be wary.