The stage is set for a thrilling series decider as India and New Zealand lock horns in the 3rd ODI at Indore. The first two matches have been high-scoring affairs defined by powerful batting and momentum shifts. India’s top order has been dominant, but their bowling, unable to defend a competitive total last game, faces scrutiny. New Zealand, displaying their trademark resilience and smart cricket, look settled and ready to challenge India in their own backyard. With the series on the line, this promises to be a classic encounter at one of India’s most batter-friendly venues.
India vs New Zealand Win Probability
*Favorites by form and leading run-scorer advantage.
IND vs NZ Batting Tips
India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI Match Details
| Match | Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2026, 3rd ODI |
| Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026 |
| Time | 01:30 PM (LOCAL) |
| Venue | Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore |
| Live Streaming (TV) | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | JioHotstar |
IND vs NZ Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
The prediction leans towards India winning the series decider. The analysis hinges on three key factors: conditions, batting firepower, and pressure. Playing at home in Indore, a ground known for high scores, gives India’s formidable top order, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli, a significant advantage to set or chase a big total. While New Zealand’s balanced side and Daryl Mitchell’s proven record against India pose a serious threat, India’s experience in these high-pressure home deciders is considered decisive. The main concern for India is their bowling attack’s recent inability to defend, which they will need to rectify.
India vs New Zealand Head to Head (ODIs)
| Total Match Played | 122 |
| IND Won | 63 |
| NZ Won | 51 |
| Draw/NR/Tie | 08 |
IND vs NZ Teams Preview (Top Players to Watch)
India
India enters with confidence buoyed by home conditions and a dominant top order that has consistently controlled the powerplays. However, their bowling, which failed to defend a good total in the previous match, is an area of concern and may see changes like the inclusion of Arshdeep Singh for left-arm variety. The middle order, with the experienced Virat Kohli and the flexible KL Rahul, provides stability, while all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja adds crucial balance.
IND Probable Playing XI-
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.
Top Player to Watch- Virat Kohli & Harshit Rana.
New Zealand
New Zealand have shown why they are a well-organized ODI unit, adapting smartly to conditions. Their top order prioritizes stability, with Daryl Mitchell being the lynchpin of the middle order due to his strong record against India. The team boasts batting depth, disciplined bowling focused on planning over pure pace, and an athletic fielding unit that creates momentum shifts.
NZ Probable Playing XI-
Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell (C), Mitchell Hay (WK), Kyle Jamieson, Zakary Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Jayden Lennox.
Top Player to Watch- Daryl Mitchell & Kyle Jamieson.
IND vs NZ Weather & Pitch Report
The Indore pitch is a flat, batting-friendly surface with true bounce and a quick outfield. It offers minimal assistance to spinners, and pacers are only likely to find some movement with the new ball. A high-scoring match is expected, with teams often preferring to bat first and set a daunting total.
Clear skies are expected with no chance of rain. Temperatures will be pleasant, ranging from 24-27°C during the day to 16-15°C at night. A light north-east breeze is expected, with a minimal dew factor likely in the second innings.
India vs New Zealand Dream11 Team
- Wicket-keeper: KL Rahul, Devon Conway
- Batters: Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Daryl Mitchell, Shreyas Iyer
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Michael Bracewell
- Bowlers: Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Kyle Jamieson
Pro Tip: For fantasy contests, platforms like Dream11 offer free team creation for users outside India. Always finalize your team after the official playing XIs are announced, typically 30 minutes before the match start, to make necessary adjustments.
Disclaimer: This match prediction is based on analysis of team strengths, pitch conditions, and historical data. It is for entertainment purposes only. We do not endorse or engage in any illegal betting activities. Users, especially from India, must comply with all local laws, including regulations under the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.
