India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI: Kohli’s 124 in Vain as NZ Win by 41 Runs to Clinch Series 2–1

India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI: Kohli’s 124 in Vain as NZ Win by 41 Runs to Clinch Series 2–1

New Zealand carved their name into the record books once again, clinching a landmark 2–1 ODI series victory over India after overturning an early setback. Having lost the opening match, the visitors bounced back strongly to seal the decider in Indore by 41 runs, marking their first-ever ODI series win in India in 37 years of touring the country.

The achievement becomes even more remarkable considering the circumstances. The young Black Caps side was without several senior players, including Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner and Lockie Ferguson. Michael Bracewell, part of the squad, was also sidelined by a calf injury and did not bowl a single delivery. Despite these absences, New Zealand outplayed an Indian team packed with experience, though missing pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and undergoing a phase of transition.

In the third and final ODI, New Zealand recovered from an early wobble of 5 for 2 to post a formidable 337 for 8 after being asked to bat. Daryl Mitchell continued his sublime form with his second century of the series, scoring a commanding 137 off 131 balls. Glenn Phillips provided explosive support, smashing 106 from just 88 deliveries. The duo added a crucial 219-run partnership that turned the match decisively in New Zealand’s favour. For India, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana picked up three wickets apiece but could not prevent the damage.

Chasing 338, India faltered early and were reduced to 71 for 4, losing key batters in quick succession. Virat Kohli stood tall amid the collapse, producing a fighting 124 off 108 balls — his 54th ODI century and 85th international hundred. Nitish Kumar Reddy (53) and Harshit Rana (52) offered brief resistance, but the steep target proved too much. India were eventually bowled out for 296 in 46 overs.

New Zealand’s bowlers held their nerve in the closing stages, with Zak Foulkes (3/77) and Kristian Clarke (3/54) leading the attack, while spinner Jayden Lennox chipped in with two wickets. The final blow came via a sharp run-out by Glenn Phillips, sealing a memorable victory for the visitors.

The series win adds another chapter to New Zealand’s growing reputation as a formidable touring side. After last year’s historic 3–0 Test sweep in India, this ODI success further underlines the depth and resilience of the Black Caps, setting the stage for intriguing post-match reactions and discussions in the days ahead.