New Zealand Secure Historic ODI Series Victory in India
21 January 2026 – New Zealand secured a memorable 2-1 series victory on Indian soil, defeating the hosts by 41 runs in the decisive third ODI at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. Stand-in captain Daryl Mitchell was instrumental in the Black Caps’ triumph, earning both the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards.
Series Overview
The three-match ODI series, part of New Zealand’s tour of India in early 2026, was a closely contested affair. India took an early lead in Vadodara, but the visitors fought back with consecutive wins in Rajkot and Indore to claim the series. The result marked a significant achievement for a New Zealand side missing several senior players.
Match Summaries & Key Statistics
| Match & Venue | Result | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|
| 1st ODI, Vadodara | India won by 4 wickets NZ: 300/8 (50 ov) IND: 306/6 (49 ov) | IND: V Kohli 93 (91), S Gill 56 (71) NZ: D Mitchell 84 (71), H Nicholls 62 (69) POTM: Virat Kohli |
| 2nd ODI, Rajkot | New Zealand won by 7 wickets IND: 284/7 (50 ov) NZ: 285/3 (46.5 ov) | IND: KL Rahul 112* (92), S Gill 56 (53) NZ: D Mitchell 101* (96), W Young 87 (98) POTM: Daryl Mitchell |
| 3rd ODI, Indore | New Zealand won by 41 runs NZ: 337/8 (50 ov) IND: 296 (46 ov) | NZ: D Mitchell 119, G Phillips 106 IND: V Kohli 124 (108) POTM & POS: Daryl Mitchell |
Series Standouts
New Zealand’s middle order proved to be the difference. Daryl Mitchell was the undisputed star, amassing 352 runs across the three matches at a staggering average of 176, including a century and two fifties. His partnership with Glenn Phillips, who scored a blistering 106 in the final ODI, was particularly devastating. For India, Virat Kohli continued his rich vein of form, scoring 240 runs at an average of 80, but lacked consistent support from the top order.
With the ball, New Zealand’s attack, led by the impressive debutant Jayden Lennox and the consistent Kristian Clarke, managed to contain India’s powerful batting line-up in the latter matches. India’s decision to bowl first in the series decider after winning the toss backfired as the Black Caps posted an imposing total.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the ODI series between India and New Zealand in 2026?
New Zealand won the three-match ODI series 2-1. After losing the first match in Vadodara, they bounced back to win the second and third ODIs in Rajkot and Indore respectively.
Who was the Player of the Series?
New Zealand’s stand-in captain, Daryl Mitchell, was named Player of the Series. He was the leading run-scorer with 352 runs, including a match-winning 119 in the final ODI.
What was the result of the decisive third ODI?
New Zealand won the third and final ODI in Indore by 41 runs. Batting first, they posted 337/8, powered by centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips. India, in reply, were bowled out for 296 despite a century from Virat Kohli.
Did this series affect ICC rankings?
This bilateral series was part of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup cycle. The points earned contributed to both teams’ standings in the qualification pathway for the next World Cup.