New Zealand overcame a valiant century by Virat Kohli to defeat India by 41 runs on Sunday, sealing their first-ever ODI series victory on Indian soil. The win gave the Black Caps a 2–1 triumph in the three-match series, marking a historic moment for the visitors despite Kohli’s determined effort.
Batting first in Indore, New Zealand recovered from early trouble after slipping to 5-2 and 58-3. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips steadied the innings with a commanding 219-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Mitchell scored a superb 137, while Phillips struck 106 off just 88 balls, propelling New Zealand to a strong total of 337-8. Mitchell continued his fine form after his unbeaten 131 in the second ODI, while Phillips punished the Indian attack with clean hitting.
In reply, India faltered early and were reduced to 71-4 before Kohli led the fightback. The in-form batter, playing only the ODI format after retiring from Tests and T20Is, stitched together an 88-run stand with Nitish Kumar Reddy, who made 53, followed by a crucial 99-run partnership with Harshit Rana, who scored 52. Kohli brought up his 54th ODI century and 85th international hundred, striking 10 fours and three sixes in his 108-ball knock.
Despite Kohli’s resistance, India were bowled out for 296 in 46 overs. New Zealand’s bowling effort was led by Zak Foulkes and Kristian Clarke, who picked up three wickets each. Left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox claimed 2-42 in 10 overs after captain Michael Bracewell left the field with a calf injury, forcing Mitchell to lead the side.
The teams will now shift focus to a five-match T20 series, serving as final preparations for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
