India suffered a 41-run defeat against New Zealand in the third and final ODI at Holkar Stadium, Indore, handing the visitors a historic 2–1 series victory. Despite a fighting century from Virat Kohli, India fell short while chasing a stiff target of 338.
New Zealand posted a formidable 337 for 8 in their 50 overs, powered by brilliant centuries from Daryl Mitchell (137) and Glenn Phillips (106). The duo stitched together a match-defining partnership that put India under immense pressure. The Indian bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Zakary Foulkes (3/77), Kristian Clarke (3/54) and Jayden Lennox (2/42) later capitalising with key breakthroughs.
India’s chase got off to a disastrous start as the hosts slipped to 71 for 4 after losing Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill early. Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a resolute 124 off 108 balls, registering his 54th ODI century, but lacked sustained support from the top order. Nitish Kumar Reddy (53) and Harshit Rana (52) added some resistance, yet the asking rate kept climbing.
India were eventually bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, sealing a landmark series win for New Zealand. This triumph marked the Kiwis’ first-ever ODI series victory in India, achieved with a relatively inexperienced squad and several first-time tourists.
The result capped a remarkable tour for New Zealand, underlining their growing dominance in Indian conditions and raising questions for India ahead of future ODI assignments.