Even Kohli’s century could not save India, fort broken in Indore; New Zealand created history

Indore: The India-New Zealand ODI match played at the Holkar Stadium in Indore city of Madhya Pradesh had everything like Virat Kohli’s century and the thrill of a big target, but in the end there was no victory. Sunday night brought disappointment for Indian cricket fans. In the third match, New Zealand not only won the match by defeating India by 41 runs, but also won the ODI series in India for the first time.

Chasing 338 runs, but the destination remained far away

Actually, New Zealand had scored 337 runs in the stipulated 50 overs. At the same time, the start of the Indian team, which came to chase the big target of 338 runs, was not as expected. Wickets kept falling, pressure increased and the entire team was reduced to 296 runs in 46 overs. This was also India’s first ODI defeat at the Holkar Stadium, which broke the image of this ground as an invincible fortress.

Kohli stood alone, others could not support him

Virat Kohli once again showed class. He played an excellent inning of 124 runs in 108 balls. From cover drives to pull shots, Kohli’s batting was worth watching. But wickets kept falling from the other end and even this century could not lead the team to victory. Although on many occasions it seemed that Kohli would drag the match, but the lack of partnership proved costly for India.

New Zealand’s batting laid the foundation of victory

Before this, New Zealand made a strong score. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips did not let the Indian bowlers run. Daryl Mitchell scored 137 runs and Glenn Phillips scored a century of 106 runs. There was a big partnership of 219 runs between the two, which completely changed the course of the match. Indian bowlers failed to break this partnership.

Clarke and Faulks shined in bowling

New Zealand’s bowlers played an important role in derailing India’s run chase. Christian Clarke and Jack Foulkes broke the back of Indian batting by taking 3 wickets each. By taking wickets at the right time, he ended all hopes of India’s comeback.

The series also got lost

With this victory, New Zealand achieved the feat of winning the ODI series in India for the first time. For the Indian team, this defeat at home will not only be a match but will also be a reason for introspection.

Lost bilateral series after 2 years

India has lost a bilateral ODI series at home for the first time since March 2023. From 1988 to 2026, 8 bilateral ODI series have been played between India and New Zealand. This is New Zealand’s first bilateral series win. India had won the last seven series.