3rd ODI India vs New Zealand, India Dismantle New Zealand 3-0 to Claim No.1 Spot in ODI Teams’ Ranking
The New Zealand team was looking to restore some pride in the last game, but all their efforts went in vain as usual. New Zealand won the toss and made the wrong decision of opting to bowl first, giving India another chance to throw them out of the game with their strong batting lineup. India greeted the offer with open arms and again smashed a mammoth target of 385/9 in their allotted 50 overs. The foundation was again laid by the top-order batters of the Indian team as both openers put up an opening stand of 212 runs. Rohit Sharma was the first one to go after playing a tremendous knock of 101 (85). Gill scored another ODI hundred and caught out at 112 (78).
After the departure of both openers, India was in a strong position to set a big target. So, the remaining Indian batsmen chipped in with their contributions, especially Pandya with his quick 54 of just 38 balls. India was able to set a huge target of 386 runs for the New Zealand team to chase and win a consolation game in the end. Duffy took 3 wickets but after conceding 100 runs in his 10 overs. So, none of the New Zealand bowlers were able to challenge the strong Indian batting lineup. In pursuit of chasing 386 in 3rd ODI India vs New Zealand at Indore Cricket Stadium, New Zealand was held back with an early wicket of Finn Allen. Devon Conway took the responsibility then to lead his team in this huge chase, and he produced a partnership of 106 runs with Nicholls to give New Zealand some hope.
After the departure of Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell also showed some resistance but only could manage to score 24 (31). New Zealand needed Latham and Phillips to put up a show along with Devon Conway to reach the target, but both failed to challenge Indian bowlers. Bracewell made 26 (22), and Santner chipped in with 34 (29). New Zealand team lost Conway in the 32nd over of the match at 230/6. Conway made a brilliant 138 (100) but all in vain as they could not reach the target, and the entire team was wrapped up in the 42nd over. New Zealand only could manage to score 295, and India won the match by 90 runs and cleanly swept New Zealand 3-0. This sweet series victory doubled the joy for the Indian team and fans as now they are the number 1 ODI team in the ICC team rankings.