The three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand turned out to be a tough one for the Indian cricket team, as the hosts lost the series at home for the first time. New Zealand won the series 2–1, with the third and decisive match at Holkar Stadium in Indore ending in a 41-run defeat for India.
Following the loss, criticism targeted several Indian players whose performances fell short in crucial moments. Here are the 5 Indian players considered largely responsible for the team’s defeat:
1. Rohit Sharma
The experienced opener and former captain was expected to play a key role. However, in the third ODI, Rohit scored only 11 runs before getting out, dealing an early blow to India.
2. Shreyas Iyer
As the vice-captain, he was expected to anchor the middle order, but Iyer also struggled and scored only 3 runs, putting additional pressure on the team.
3. Ravindra Jadeja
All-rounder Jadeja was expected to contribute with both bat and ball. However, he bowled 6 overs for 41 runs without taking a wicket and managed only 12 runs with the bat.
4. KL Rahul
After scoring a century in the second match, Rahul struggled in the third ODI, getting out for just 1 run. A longer stay at the crease could have improved India’s position significantly.
5. Kuldeep Yadav
Bowler Kuldeep Yadav also had a disappointing performance. He conceded 48 runs in 6 overs and took only one wicket, allowing New Zealand to post a challenging total.
The Bigger Picture of the Series Defeat
New Zealand batted first and set a challenging target of 337/8, with brilliant centuries from Daryl Mitchell (137) and Glenn Phillips (106). India tried to chase the target, with Virat Kohli scoring a magnificent 124 runs, but lack of support from other batsmen meant they could not reach the target.
This series loss was historic, as it marked the first time New Zealand won an ODI series on Indian soil.