India and New Zealand head into the third and final ODI with the series locked at 1-1, turning the Indore encounter into a decisive showdown. Both sides carry strong momentum from the first two matches, setting up a high-quality contest with the series on the line.
Match details follow.
Match: India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI
Series: New Zealand tour of India, ODI series 2026
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
Venue: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
Start time: 1:30 PM IST, 1:00 PM PST, 8:00 AM GMT
Team overview: India
India approach the series decider with confidence in their batting depth and familiarity with conditions. Shubman Gill has led from the front with two successive half-centuries, while KL Rahul’s unbeaten 112 in the second ODI provided stability under pressure. Rohit Sharma has given brisk starts but will aim to convert them into a defining score, and Virat Kohli’s composure in the middle overs continues to anchor the lineup despite an early dismissal last match.
India’s bowling unit blends pace and spin effectively. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh handle the new ball, while Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja control the middle overs. The focus for India remains improving execution during crunch phases, especially at the death, where New Zealand found success in the previous game.
Team overview: New Zealand
New Zealand enter the final ODI with momentum after a confident chase in the second match. Daryl Mitchell has been the standout performer, delivering two major innings including a match-winning century. Will Young’s calm approach at the top has complemented Mitchell well, allowing the middle order to play with freedom.
The New Zealand bowling attack has shown discipline, particularly through Kyle Jamieson’s bounce and control in early overs. With a balanced squad and belief gained from recent success, New Zealand will look to apply sustained pressure and force India into mistakes during the middle overs.
Head-to-head record
India and New Zealand have faced each other 122 times in ODIs. India hold a narrow advantage with 63 wins, while New Zealand have claimed 51 victories. One match ended in a tie and seven produced no result. The numbers reflect a competitive rivalry, especially in recent years.
Pitch report and conditions
The Holkar Cricket Stadium traditionally offers a batting-friendly surface, especially during the first half of the innings. The black soil wicket provides even bounce, encouraging stroke play and high scoring. Under lights, bowlers may find some assistance as conditions change, but totals above 300 have often proven match-defining here. The weather forecast remains clear, with no rain expected, ensuring a full 50-over contest.
Probable playing XIs
India probable XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Nitish Kumar Reddy or Ayush Badoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj.
New Zealand probable XI: Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay (wicketkeeper), Michael Bracewell (captain), Zakary Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Jayden Lennox.
Key players to watch
Virat Kohli remains central to India’s plans due to his control in pressure situations and ability to pace an innings. For New Zealand, Daryl Mitchell’s exceptional form makes him the biggest threat in the decider. Kuldeep Yadav’s past success at Indore positions him as a potential game-changer, while Kyle Jamieson’s bounce and consistency add balance to New Zealand’s bowling attack.
Toss factor and match scenarios
Historical data at Indore suggests batting first provides a significant advantage. Teams setting totals have won five of the seven ODIs played here. India batting first and posting a score above 300 would place New Zealand under sustained pressure, while a New Zealand first-innings total beyond 280 would test India’s chasing discipline.
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will be televised on the Star Sports Network, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can follow the match through official sports broadcasters carrying international cricket and authorised digital platforms. In the UK, the game will air on accredited cricket channels and their streaming services. Australian audiences can watch via international cricket broadcasters and approved streaming apps. Global viewers can access the match through official broadcast partners and series-approved platforms.
Match prediction
India hold a slight analytical edge due to middle-order solidity, home conditions and experience in series deciders. New Zealand’s in-form batting, led by Daryl Mitchell, and disciplined bowling keep the contest finely balanced. If India manage to control the middle overs and set or chase a strong total, they are better positioned to clinch the series, though the margin remains narrow.
