The third India vs New Zealand match in Indore is set up as a series decider, with both teams having selection questions and a high-scoring pitch expected. New Zealand are chasing their first-ever ODI series win in India. They have toured India many times for ODIs, including World Cups and a Champions Trophy, but have never finished as series winners. They have only forced a decider three times before and failed on each occasion.
The pitch and conditions point strongly towards a run-fest. This is the same ground where Virender Sehwag scored 219 and India made 418 in the past. India have also posted 399 and 385 here in their last two matches, with one of those coming against New Zealand three years ago.
India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI: What to expect?
India comes into the match as the stronger side, being runners-up in the last World Cup and current Champions Trophy and Asia Cup holders. However, conditions in India can change a lot from afternoon to night, which can test even strong teams. India have not lost a home ODI after winning the toss in more than three years, so losing the toss could be a key challenge. In terms of recent form, India’s last five completed ODIs read LWWLW, while New Zealand’s form stands at WLWWW.
One key battle to watch is between Kuldeep Yadav and Daryl Mitchell. In the previous match, Mitchell went after Kuldeep and shifted the game firmly in New Zealand’s favor. Across their contest so far, Mitchell has scored 161 runs off 149 balls and been dismissed twice. New Zealand will need something similar again, while Kuldeep will be keen to respond after bowling a bit too flat last time.
India also have selection decisions to make. Ayush Badoni was added to the squad as cover for the injured Washington Sundar, but Nitish Kumar Reddy played the second ODI and bowled only two overs, which could open the door for a Badoni debut. The small boundaries in Indore may work against that idea. Arshdeep Singh has been in good form but has not played in this series, while the other fast bowlers have done well.
India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI: Where to watch?
The third India vs New Zealand ODI will be played on Sunday, January 18, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. The match is scheduled to start at 1:30 pm IST, with the toss taking place at 1:00 pm IST. In India, the live telecast of the match will be available on the Star Sports Network. Fans can also watch the live streaming of the India vs New Zealand third ODI on the JioHotstar app and website.
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