Image: Virat Kohli during the 3rd ODI at Holkar Stadium / © X (Twitter)
New Zealand batted first and posted a commanding 337 for 8 in their 50 overs, with a formidable fourth-wicket partnership of 219 runs at the heart of their innings. Daryl Mitchell was the chief architect, top-scoring with a mature 137, while Glenn Phillips backed him up with a stylish 106 off 88 balls. Their combined assault put India under chronic scoreboard pressure, expertly challenging the home bowling unit throughout the innings.
In reply, India fought valiantly, anchored by a brilliant century from Virat Kohli, who continued his rich run of form with 124 runs off 108 balls. Kohli’s innings was a blend of textbook timing and controlled aggression, and although it kept India firmly in the contest, it ultimately proved insufficient. Contributions from Harshit Rana, who scored a lively 52 off 43 as part of a crucial middle-order stand with Kohli, helped India reach 296 all out in 46 overs, but they ultimately fell short of the target.
While Kohli’s hundred was one of the definitive batting displays of the series, New Zealand’s bowlers deserve credit for striking key blows at crucial moments to prevent India from gaining full control of the chase. Their disciplined execution ensured that India never quite got ahead of the run rate once the Black Caps had built their imposing total.
New Zealand’s achievement carries historic significance. Until this series, no men’s side had won an ODI series in India, a stronghold of home dominance across conditions and formats. The Black Caps’ victory is all the more impressive considering they did it without several senior players, showing depth and resilience in their squad.
It was a mixed night for India: a moment of high individual brilliance from Kohli — adding another century to his illustrious career — but not enough to deny New Zealand their moment of glory. In the post-match reactions, India’s captain expressed disappointment, acknowledging that the team had not lived up to its expectations despite strong individual contributions.
As both teams now turn their attention to the upcoming T20I series, this third ODI will be remembered as a defining moment in New Zealand’s white-ball history — and a reminder that ODI cricket in India is increasingly competitive for visiting sides.