India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has won widespread appreciation for a heartwarming gesture after the second ODI against New Zealand in Wellington. Following India’s thrilling four-run victory under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method on Saturday (November 7), Rahul gifted the smartphone he received as the Game Changer of the Match award to a female official at the venue.

The thoughtful act quickly caught the attention of cricket fans after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the moment on social media. While the match itself delivered plenty of drama, Rahul’s gesture provided a memorable moment away from the action on the field.

KL Rahul’s heartwarming gesture goes viral

In the video shared by the BCCI, the female official can be seen expressing surprise after receiving the smartphone from Rahul. She appeared genuinely touched by the unexpected gesture and admitted that she had not anticipated receiving the gift.

“Well, he just gave me his phone. I am a bit of shocked, it was very kind of them to give it over to me. I wasn’t expecting it, that’s for sure,” the lady official said.

The moment soon attracted attention online, with fans appreciating Rahul for sharing his award with someone working behind the scenes. Such gestures often remind supporters that the human side of sport can be just as memorable as performances and results.

The BCCI also praised the Indian batter through a social media post, writing, “Big player. Bigger heart An act of kindness and pure 𝙆𝙇𝙖𝙨𝙨.”

Here’s the video:

Big player. Bigger heart 💙

🎥 An act of kindness and pure 𝙆𝙇𝙖𝙨𝙨 🙌#TeamIndia | #NZvIND | @klrahul pic.twitter.com/BgT005WZlp

— BCCI (@BCCI) November 8, 2026

Rahul’s action added another feel-good story to India’s successful tour of New Zealand, where the visitors have continued to find ways to win in challenging conditions.

KL Rahul plays crucial role in India’s win over New Zealand

Rahul’s gesture came after he played an important role in India’s tense victory in the second ODI at Wellington’s Hnry Stadium.

Batting first in a rain-affected contest reduced to 47 overs per side, New Zealand struggled against India’s pace attack and were bowled out for 134 in 41 overs. Daryl Mitchell top-scored with 55, while young fast bowler Gurnoor Brar produced a career-best performance, claiming four wickets for 30 runs.

Also READ: NZ vs IND – Ian Bishop explains why Gurnoor Brar deserves a long rope in Team India

India’s chase was far from straightforward. The visitors lost captain Shubman Gill for a golden duck before Virat Kohli also departed cheaply. Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel fell as India slipped to 47/4, putting pressure on the middle order.

Rahul then joined Shreyas Iyer to stabilise the innings. Iyer scored 30 before being dismissed, while Rahul remained unbeaten on 26 off 38 deliveries, hitting two fours and two sixes.

India reached 113/7 in 26 overs when rain stopped play. With the visitors four runs ahead of the DLS par score, they secured a narrow victory. Brar was named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling display.

The victory strengthened India’s position in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. Having won the opening match in Auckland by five wickets under the DLS method, India moved 2-0 ahead and put themselves in a commanding position.

The third ODI is scheduled to take place in Hamilton on November 10, with New Zealand needing a strong response to keep the series alive.

Also READ: Fans react after India secure thrilling DLS win over New Zealand as rain washes out 2nd ODI

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