Kohli’s 124 in vain as NZ clinches historic ODI series in India
Kohli’s 124 in vain as NZ clinches historic ODI series in India
Kohli’s 124 couldn’t stop India from a first-ever home bilateral ODI series defeat as New Zealand sealed a 2-1 series win at Holkar Stadium, Indore.
India suffered a historic home ODI series defeat to New Zealand as Virat Kohli’s brilliant 124 off 108 balls proved insufficient in the third ODI at Holkar Stadium. Chasing a challenging target of 338, India was bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, marking the first-ever bilateral ODI series loss to the Kiwis on home soil. New Zealand posted 337 for eight, powered by centuries from Daryl Mitchell (137) and Glenn Phillips (106). The pair stitched together a 219-run fourth-wicket partnership that turned the game decisively in New Zealand’s favour. Mitchell anchored the innings with calm authority, while Phillips provided momentum after a cautious start.
India’s chase began shakily, with Rohit Sharma falling for 11 and Shubman Gill for 23 inside seven overs. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul also failed to make an impact, leaving India at 71 for four. Kohli then rebuilt the innings alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy (53), rotating the strike intelligently and punishing loose deliveries. Harshit Rana contributed a lively 52 off 43 balls, briefly reviving India’s hopes, but the required rate proved too steep. Kohli’s dismissal at 292 for nine, caught by Daryl Mitchell off Kristian Clarke, sealed India’s fate. New Zealand celebrated a landmark 2-1 series win, showcasing composure, power, and effective partnerships. For India, Kohli’s brilliant century drew a standing ovation, but the defeat underscored that even great innings can fall short when partnerships fall away and the middle order struggles under pressure.
The Holkar Stadium crowd witnessed a series that will be remembered for NZ’s consistency in this tour, with Mitchell’s historic innings and Phillips’ late burst sealing a win that will fuel debates about India’s white-ball depth and plans ahead of the coming assignments. While India can take pride in Kohli’s form and Rana’s resilience, the ability to convert chances and bat through pressure remains a priority as they regroup for the next challenge.
