Black Caps Roar In The Decider: Mitchell And Phillips Power New Zealand To 338 Against India |

Updated: January 18, 2026 18:19

Image Source: Outlook India

New Zealand posted a formidable 337 for 8 in the third and final ODI against India after opting to bat first. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips powered the innings with commanding centuries, putting pressure on India in a high-stakes series decider.

The third and final ODI between India and New Zealand has set up a thrilling chase, with the Black Caps posting an imposing total of 337 for 8 in their allotted 50 overs. Batting first, New Zealand delivered a statement performance, blending resilience at the top with explosive middle-order batting to seize momentum in this decisive encounter.

Key Highlights

New Zealand finished on 337 for 8 after 50 overs, maintaining a healthy run rate of 6.74 throughout the innings
Daryl Mitchell anchored the innings with a superb 137 off 131 balls, showcasing composure, placement, and controlled aggression
Glenn Phillips provided late-innings firepower with a blistering 106 from 88 deliveries, accelerating sharply in the final overs
Mitchell and Phillips stitched together a match-defining partnership after New Zealand lost early wickets inside the powerplay
Michael Bracewell added valuable support with an unbeaten cameo, ensuring the run rate never dipped in the closing stages

New Zealand’s innings did not begin smoothly, as India struck early to remove Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls cheaply. However, Will Young steadied the ship briefly before the middle order took charge. The turning point came with the Mitchell–Phillips partnership, which dismantled India’s bowling attack through calculated stroke play and smart rotation.

From India’s perspective, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana emerged as the most effective bowlers, picking up three wickets each. Mohammed Siraj kept things tight with his lines, while the spinners found limited assistance on a batting-friendly surface. Despite regular breakthroughs late in the innings, India struggled to contain the flow of runs during the death overs.

As the innings break arrives, the spotlight now shifts to India’s batting lineup. Chasing 338 in a series decider demands both intent and discipline, especially against a New Zealand side buoyed by momentum. With conditions appearing favorable for batting, fans can expect a gripping second innings as India looks to rise to the challenge and clinch the series.

Sources: Cricbuzz

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