Ind vs NZ ODI: Kohli’s chase ends short as New Zealand claim series glory

Virat Kohli’s magnificent century could not save India from a rare home series defeat as New Zealand clinched their first ever bilateral One Day International series win on Indian soil, defeating the hosts by 41 runs in the third and deciding ODI on Sunday to seal the series 2-1 .

After winning the toss, India opted to bowl, but New Zealand recovered strongly from early setbacks through a dominant partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips . Mitchell continued his outstanding form in the series, scoring a composed 137 off 131 balls, while Phillips played a fluent knock of 106 off 88 deliveries. Their 219 run stand powered New Zealand to an imposing total of 337 for 8 in the allotted 50 overs.

India’s bowlers did manage breakthroughs, with Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana picking up three wickets each, but the damage inflicted by the Mitchell Phillips partnership proved decisive on a batting friendly surface.

In reply, India’s chase of 338 began on a shaky note as wickets fell at regular intervals. Kohli once again rose to the occasion, producing a determined 124 off 108 balls to register his 85th international century. The former captain anchored the innings under pressure, showcasing his trademark composure in run chases.

Kohli found valuable support from Nitish Kumar Reddy, who scored 53, and Harshit Rana, who added 52 from the lower order. Their contributions briefly revived India’s hopes, but New Zealand’s disciplined bowling ensured that the required run rate remained out of reach.

India were eventually bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, falling short despite a spirited fight. Once Kohli was dismissed, the chase lost momentum, allowing the visitors to tighten their grip on the contest.

The victory marks a landmark moment for New Zealand and a significant setback for India in the ODI format at home. The series defeat brings the curtain down on a fiercely contested three match contest, with both teams now shifting focus to the upcoming T20 assignments.