Black Caps’ ODI Series Performance in India: A Historical Overview
New Zealand’s cricket team recently toured India for an eight-match white-ball series, which included three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and five T20I matches. This tour is vital for both the Black Caps and the Indian team as they prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to begin on February 7 and co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
ODI Series Overview
The ODI series commenced with India securing a four-wicket victory in Vadodara. Virat Kohli was instrumental in this match, scoring 93 runs and helping India chase down a target of 301 runs.
Strong Kiwis Strike Back
However, the second ODI saw a turnaround. New Zealand chased down 284 runs confidently, with Daryl Mitchell leading the scoring with a remarkable century. Will Young also contributed significantly to the team’s success.
Deciding ODI and Series Result
The series concluded in Indore on January 18. In a high-scoring match, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 337 runs. Once again, Mitchell starred for the Kiwis with another century, supported by Glenn Phillips, who also achieved a ton. Despite a century from Kohli, India could not secure the win, and New Zealand clinched the series 2-1.
Historical Context of New Zealand’s ODI Performances in India
This series marked a significant milestone for New Zealand, as they finally achieved their first ODI series victory on Indian soil after 37 years. Historically, New Zealand has toured India for bilateral ODI series seven times before this recent outing.
Previous ODI Series Results
| Year | Matches | India Wins | New Zealand Wins | Series Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1988/89 | 4 | 4 | 0 | India won 4-0 |
| 1995/96 | 5 | 3 | 2 | India won 3-2 |
| 1999/00 | 5 | 3 | 2 | India won 3-2 |
| 2010/11 | 5 | 5 | 0 | India won 5-0 |
| 2016/17 | 5 | 3 | 2 | India won 3-2 |
| 2017/18 | 3 | 2 | 1 | India won 2-1 |
| 2022/23 | 3 | 3 | 0 | India won 3-0 |
| 2026 | 3 | 1 | 2 | New Zealand won 2-1 |
This series win was a pivotal moment for New Zealand cricket, reshaping their historical narrative against India in ODIs.
