New Zealand scripted history in Indore by sealing their maiden ODI series victory on Indian soil, defeating the hosts by 41 runs in the decisive third
match to clinch the contest 2-1. Despite Virat Kohli's masterful 54th ODI hundred and another gritty fightback from India's lower order, the Black Caps' imposing first-innings total proved too tall a mountain to climb.
Put into bat after Shubman Gill won the toss, New Zealand overcame early setbacks courtesy of a superb 219-run partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips.
India's young pacers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh struck twice in the opening spell, removing Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls cheaply. Will Young and Mitchell then steadied the innings before Rana struck again to dismiss Young.
From there, Mitchell shifted gears, dominating India's spinners with a flurry of boundaries to bring up his ninth ODI century - his second in the series. Phillips matched him stroke for stroke, reaching a ton of his own, as the pair shifted the momentum firmly in New Zealand's favour. A late cameo from skipper Michael Bracewell propelled the visitors to a formidable 337/8.
India's chase began with intent, but timely breakthroughs from the Black Caps derailed the innings. Rohit Sharma fell in the Powerplay, and a cluster of quick wickets saw India slump to 71/4. Kohli held one end with characteristic composure, combining with Nitish Kumar Reddy for an 88-run stand before Clarke broke through.
Wickets continued to tumble, but Kohli and Harshit Rana launched a counterattack, stitching a 99-run partnership that briefly revived hopes of an improbable chase.
Kohli's century - one that took him past Ricky Ponting as the highest run-scorer at No.3 in ODI cricket - kept India alive until Zakary Foulkes' double strike and Clarke's dismissal of Kohli sealed the contest. India were bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, handing New Zealand a famous series win.
When Is India's Next ODI Assignment?
With the ODI defeat now behind them, fans are keen to know when India will next don the 50-over jersey. According to the ICC's Future Tours Programme, India's next confirmed ODI assignment comes in July 2026 during their tour of England. The three matches are scheduled for July 14 (Birmingham), July 16 (Cardiff), and July 19 (Lord's).
While a proposed one-off Test and three ODIs against Afghanistan in June 2026 remain unconfirmed, India are slated to host the West Indies for three ODIs later that year before travelling to New Zealand for another three-match series. The Men in Blue will also conclude 2026 with three ODIs at home against Sri Lanka in December.
