Key Points:
• New Zealand secured their first bilateral ODI series victory in India with a 2–1 triumph.
• Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips both scored centuries, forming a decisive 219-run partnership.
• India’s Virat Kohli produced a fighting century, but his effort couldn’t prevent defeat
New Zealand clinched a landmark One-Day International (ODI) series win in India on Sunday, completing a comeback victory in the deciding match of a three-game set. The tourists triumphed by 41 runs in Indore, sealing the series 2–1 and marking their first bilateral ODI series victory on Indian soil.
After India opted to field first, New Zealand slumped early to 58-3 on a pitch that offered movement to the bowlers. The situation looked precarious until two of their most in-form batters began a counter-attacking partnership.
Daryl Mitchell anchored the innings with a superb 137 runs. He struck boundaries and controlled the tempo, rebuilding from the early collapse and denying the Indian attack further breakthroughs. His innings represented a career-best in ODIs and highlighted his consistency in the format.
Partnering him was Glenn Phillips, who fired a quick-paced 106 off 88 balls. Phillips applied pressure on the bowlers with aggressive shot-making and matched Mitchell’s intent to keep scoring. The duo’s 219-run stand for the fourth wicket powered New Zealand to a competitive total of 337-8.
India’s chase began with promise but lost momentum as regular wickets fell. Virat Kohli stood firm at the crease, compiling a resolute 124. His innings extended his record for ODI centuries and showcased his fighting prowess even when the target soared beyond reach.
Kohli’s century was supported by key partnerships, including a spirited stand with Harshit Rana, but India could never fully steady the chase. Their required rate climbed steadily, and they were eventually dismissed for 296 in 46 overs.
Across the series, New Zealand showed strong character and adaptability. After losing the opening ODI, they responded with disciplined performances in the second match to square the series. Mitchell’s earlier unbeaten 131 guided a successful chase, setting up the decider with confidence.
The victory held extra significance as New Zealand had previously struggled to win limited-overs series in India. Historical records show they had never clinched a bilateral ODI series there, making this achievement a milestone for the Black Caps.
For India, the loss prompted reflection and critique from within the camp. Captain Shubman Gill described the defeat as disappointing, signaling room for improvement as his side prepares for future competitions.
New Zealand’s balanced attacking display and resilience under pressure earned praise from fans and pundits alike. Their bowlers also played a key role, with timely breakthroughs that halted India’s momentum late in the chase.
With a landmark ODI success now behind them, both teams will shift focus to a five-match T20 International series beginning later this month. That series doubles as vital preparation for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
