The New Zealand cricket team scripted a historic moment in Indian cricket by winning an ODI bilateral series in India after 38 years, defeating the India national cricket team 2–1 in the 2026 series.
The series-deciding third ODI was played on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, where New Zealand clinched a 41-run win to complete a memorable comeback after losing the opening match.
3rd ODI: Match That Defined the Series
Batting first, New Zealand posted a commanding 337/8 in 50 overs, a total that proved decisive in the context of the match and the series.
The innings was shaped by an outstanding fourth-wicket partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips:
- Daryl Mitchell scored a patient and powerful 137 runs, absorbing pressure and anchoring the innings.
- Glenn Phillips added momentum with an attacking 106 off 88 balls, shifting the game away from India.
- Together, they added 219 runs, the biggest stand of the match and the turning point of the series decider.
Despite early wickets, New Zealand’s middle order showed composure and intent, ensuring the total stayed well above par at Indore.
India’s Chase: Kohli Fights, But New Zealand Hold Nerve
Chasing 338, India suffered early setbacks with both openers dismissed inside the powerplay. The pressure increased as wickets fell regularly, leaving the chase heavily dependent on one major partnership.
Virat Kohli once again rose to the occasion, scoring a superb 124 runs, which marked:
- His 54th ODI century
- His 7th ODI hundred against New Zealand
- One of the highest centuries scored in a losing cause in ODI cricket
He received valuable support from Harshit Rana, who played a fearless knock of 52 off 43 balls, registering his maiden ODI fifty under pressure.
However, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured wickets kept falling at the other end. India were eventually bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, falling short by 41 runs.
Series Highlights & Key Numbers
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Series result | New Zealand won 2–1 |
| Third ODI margin | New Zealand won by 41 runs |
| New Zealand total (3rd ODI) | 337/8 |
| India total (3rd ODI) | 296 all out |
| Highest partnership | 219 runs (Mitchell–Phillips) |
| Virat Kohli in series decider | 124 runs |
| Harshit Rana | Maiden ODI fifty (52) |
| Historic note | First NZ ODI series win in India since 1988 |
This victory marks New Zealand’s first-ever ODI bilateral series win in India, ending a long wait that stretched back to 1988. Achieving this feat with a relatively young and balanced squad underlines the depth and adaptability of New Zealand cricket.
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Winning two consecutive matches after losing the series opener also highlighted their ability to handle pressure, adapt to Indian conditions, and deliver in decisive moments.
For India, the series served as a reminder that even strong home records can be challenged, especially when opposition middle orders seize key moments.
FAQs
Q1. How many matches did New Zealand win in the ODI series?
New Zealand won 2 out of 3 matches, sealing the series 2–1.
Q2. Who were the standout players in the series decider?
Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Virat Kohli, and Harshit Rana played key roles.
Q3. Why is this series win historic for New Zealand?
It is New Zealand’s first ODI bilateral series win in India since 1988.
Q4. Where was the third ODI played?
The match was played at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore.
