Indore | January 18, 2026: Visiting New Zealand clinched the three-match ODI series 2–1 with a composed 41 run victory over hosts India in the series decider at Indore on Sunday, overcoming a valiant century from Virat Kohli with a disciplined all-round performance.
Asked to bat first after India won the toss and elected to bowl, New Zealand posted a formidable 337 for 8 in 50 overs on a batting-friendly surface. The backbone of the innings was a commanding 137 off 131 balls from Daryl Mitchell, who mixed composure with controlled aggression. He was ably supported by Glenn Phillips, whose brisk 106 from 88 deliveries shifted the momentum firmly in the visitors’ favour.
Earlier, Will Young contributed a steady 30 at the top, while skipper Mitchell Bracewell added late impetus with an unbeaten 28. India’s bowlers managed periodic breakthroughs, with Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana claiming three wickets each, while Mohammed Siraj impressed with his economy, conceding just 43 runs in his ten overs.
In reply, India’s chase revolved around a high-class innings from Virat Kohli, who scored 124 off 108 balls, showcasing trademark precision and intensity. Nitish Kumar Reddy (53) and Harshit Rana (52) offered resistance in the middle and lower order, but the required rate continued to rise as wickets fell at key moments.
New Zealand’s bowlers held their nerve in the final phase, led by Kris Clarke and Zakary Foulkes, who picked up three wickets each. Jayden Lennox’s controlled spell in the middle overs further tightened the screws, as India were eventually bowled out for 296 in 46 overs.
The win sealed the series for New Zealand and underlined their ability to deliver under pressure away from home. India, despite Kohli’s century and flashes of lower-order resilience, were left reflecting on missed opportunities with the ball and the lack of sustained partnerships during the chase.
