New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips has described the opportunity to script another historic moment in India as “pretty cool,” but insisted his team will stay grounded and focused on execution rather than emotion as they chase a rare white-ball series success against a formidable Indian side.
The comments come months after New Zealand achieved a landmark feat in October 2024, when they stunned India with a 3-0 Test series whitewash — becoming the first touring team in 69 years to win a Test series on Indian soil. That triumph also marked New Zealand’s first Test win in India since 1988.
However, Phillips cautioned against drawing parallels between red-ball success and the challenge of limited-overs cricket in India.
“Opportunities to make history are very few and far between and they’re pretty cool. But focusing on that doesn’t really help with anything. As professionals, we try to treat every moment like any other day,” Phillips said on the eve of the series-deciding match in Indore.
White-Ball Cricket in India a Different Challenge
Despite the recent Test success, Phillips acknowledged that winning a white-ball series in India remains one of the toughest tasks in international cricket.
“India is a very tough place to play and they are an incredible side. A white-ball series here is completely different and very few teams have managed to do that,” he said.
Reiterating New Zealand’s approach, Phillips stressed the importance of staying present and focusing on process.
“For us it’s about taking every game one step at a time, trying to be where our feet are and putting out our best performance every time we show up.”
Indore Conditions and Dew Could Be Decisive
Discussing the conditions at the Holkar Stadium, Phillips said dew could play a significant role as the match progresses, especially under the current playing regulations.
“With the humidity around, it could get pretty wet as the air cools down. Keeping only one ball after 34 overs changes the dynamic — it can get softer and heavier.”
Known for being a high-scoring venue with smaller boundaries, Indore demands adaptability, Phillips added.
“The pitch looks fantastic and traditionally it’s been a bit of a run-fest here, but every surface behaves differently. Anyone who says they know exactly what the pitch will do a day before is probably talking rubbish.”
Focus on Execution, Not Occasion
Phillips said New Zealand’s focus would remain firmly on execution rather than the magnitude of the occasion.
“If we do what we do best and adapt to whatever’s in front of us, hopefully that gives us the best chance of a good result.”
Fielding Excellence and Comparisons With Jadeja
Widely regarded as one of the most athletic fielders in international cricket, Phillips credited his standout catching ability to mindset and commitment.
“It mostly comes down to attitude and being willing to throw myself around for the team. I’ve probably been given a bit of a gift genetically, and it’s my responsibility to use that.”
When asked about his best catches, Phillips said it was difficult to choose between dismissing Marcus Stoinis in the World Cup in Australia or diving efforts to remove Ollie Pope and Marius Louw in New Zealand.
On comparisons with Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Phillips downplayed the debate.
“It’s pretty hard to judge fielders. It all depends on the opportunities you’re given,” he said, adding that he was happy to leave such comparisons to others.