The New Zealand cricket team created history on Indian soil by winning an ODI bilateral series in India for the first time since 1988, defeating the India national cricket team by 41 runs in the third and final ODI.
The historic moment came on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, where New Zealand sealed the series 2–1 after bouncing back strongly from a loss in the opening match.
How New Zealand Dominated the Decider
Batting first, New Zealand posted a strong 337/8 in 50 overs, powered by a match-defining partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips.
- Mitchell played a composed knock of 137 runs, anchoring the innings.
- Phillips added explosive momentum with 106 runs, shifting the pressure firmly onto India.
- The duo stitched together a massive 219-run partnership, which proved to be the turning point of the match.
Despite early wickets falling, New Zealand’s middle order showed maturity and intent, ensuring the total stayed well above par on a traditionally high-scoring Indore pitch.
Read more: Daryl Mitchell Slams Brilliant 137 vs India in 3rd ODI
India’s Chase Falls Short Despite Kohli’s Century
Chasing 338, India suffered early setbacks, losing both openers inside the powerplay. The middle order struggled to build momentum, leaving the team under mounting pressure.
Once again, Virat Kohli stood tall, scoring a fighting 124 runs, registering his 54th ODI century and seventh against New Zealand. He received support from Harshit Rana, who impressed with a brave 52 off 43 balls, showing composure beyond his experience.
However, regular wickets at the other end halted India’s chase. The tail could not sustain the required run rate, and India were eventually bowled out for 296 in 46 overs.
Series Overview
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Series Result | New Zealand won 2–1 |
| First NZ ODI series win in India | Since 1988 |
| Highest partnership (3rd ODI) | 219 runs (Mitchell–Phillips) |
| Player of the decider | Daryl Mitchell |
| India home ODI series losses since 2016 | Only vs New Zealand |
This series victory is a major statement for New Zealand cricket. Winning in Indian conditions, against a strong home side, highlights the depth and adaptability of their squad. It also marks New Zealand’s first successful ODI bilateral tour of India in nearly four decades, making it one of their most memorable overseas achievements.
Like to know? Virat Kohli Smashes 54th ODI Century, Keeps India Alive in High-Pressure Chase vs New Zealand
For India, despite individual brilliance, the series exposed areas needing improvement, especially in middle-order stability and death-overs execution.
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