New Zealand scripted history by defeating India 2-1 in a thrilling three-match ODI series on Indian soil, marking their first-ever bilateral ODI series victory in the country since 1988. The Black Caps sealed the deal with a commanding 41-run win in the decisive third ODI at Holkar Stadium in Indore on January 18, 2026.
Series Overview
The series kicked off in Vadodara where India edged out New Zealand by four wickets in the first ODI, taking a 1-0 lead. New Zealand bounced back fiercely in the second match, chasing down 285 for a seven-wicket triumph to level the series. The finale in Indore proved decisive, as the Kiwis posted 337/8 after early setbacks, thanks to a record-breaking partnership.
Decisive Third ODI: Mitchell and Phillips Unleash Mayhem
Batting first, New Zealand slumped to 58/3 before Daryl Mitchell (137 off 131 balls) and Glenn Phillips (106 off 88 balls) forged a monumental 219-run stand for the fourth wicket—the highest by any NZ pair against India in India. Captain Michael Bracewell chipped in with an unbeaten 28 to push the total to 337/8 in 50 overs.
India's chase crumbled early, losing openers in the powerplay, but Virat Kohli fought valiantly with his 54th ODI ton (124 off 108 balls). Harshit Rana's gritty 52 off 43 offered brief hope, yet the hosts were bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, handing NZ a 41-run victory. Arshdeep Singh claimed 4 wickets, but it wasn't enough.
Historic Milestone For Black Caps
This triumph ends a 37-year drought for New Zealand, who had lost seven straight bilateral ODI series in India and won just 8 of 39 ODIs there previously. Notably, NZ achieved this despite missing several first-choice players, echoing their 3-0 Test whitewash in India two years ago. Daryl Mitchell earned Player of the Match and Series accolades with 352 runs across the series.
Key Stats And Records Shattered
Record Details
Series Result New Zealand won 2-1
- Highest NZ Partnership in India vs IND 219 runs (Mitchell-Phillips)
- Mitchell's Series Runs 352 (137 in decider)
- Kohli's ODI Centuries 54th overall, 7th vs NZ
- India's Home ODI Losses Since 2016 First vs NZ
What's Next For Both Teams?
With the ODI series wrapped up, India and New Zealand gear up for a five-match T20I series starting January 21, 2026—their final outing before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in February. This upset serves as a wake-up call for India at home, while boosting NZ's confidence in subcontinental conditions.