NZ Stuns India to Claim Historic ODI Series Win

New Zealand achieved a watershed moment in their cricket history, clinching their first-ever ODI series win in India with a commanding 41-run victory in the deciding third match at Indore. Daryl Mitchell's brilliant 137 and Glenn Phillips' composed 106 powered the visitors to 337-8, a total that ultimately proved too steep for the hosts despite a masterclass from Virat Kohli.

Mitchell and Phillips Seal the Deal

The Black Caps batting display was a masterclass in controlled aggression. After Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh struck early to remove Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls, Will Young and Mitchell steadied the ship with a crucial partnership. Phillips then took over, combining aggression with smart cricket to reach three figures. The platform they built proved decisive when Zak Foulkes delivered two crucial blows in successive deliveries, removing Rana (who had fought back to 52) and Mohammed Siraj for a duck.

India's chase never quite gained momentum despite Kohli's record-extending 54th ODI century. The Men in Blue were restricted to 296 all out in 46 overs, with Arshdeep (3-63) and Harshit (3-84) providing some consolation with the ball. Clarke (3-54) and Foulkes (3-77) were the architects of New Zealand's bowling success, maintaining relentless pressure throughout.

"This series win means everything to us. To achieve this in India is something we'll remember forever." — Daryl Mitchell

This victory represents a seismic shift in ODI cricket, with New Zealand finally breaking through in a format where they've historically struggled against the established powerhouses. India will rue missed opportunities, but Kohli's continued brilliance offers hope as they regroup for upcoming assignments.