New Zealand scored 337/8 in 50 overs and set India a target of 338 in the series-deciding third ODI at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore.
Arshdeep Singh struck early and dismissed Rachin Ravindra with the fourth ball of the match. Harshit Rana removed Henry Nicholls with his first delivery and later dismissed Will Young for 30. India reduced New Zealand to 5/2 inside seven balls.
Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips rebuilt the innings with a commanding 219-run partnership. Mitchell smashed 137 off 131 balls, his third century in four innings. Phillips hammered 106 off 88 balls. Their stand changed the momentum completely and silenced the early advantage India had gained.
Mohammad Siraj dismissed Mitchell, and Arshdeep Singh removed Phillips in the death overs. Arshdeep finished with figures of 3/63 while Rana picked 3/84. Siraj bowled tightly and ended with 1/43.
Michael Bracewell added late fireworks with 28* off 18 balls. His cameo pushed the total past 330 and gave New Zealand a strong finish.
India now faces a stiff chase of 338 runs. The highest successful ODI chase against New Zealand remains 316. India has never chased more than 320 against the Kiwis. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill carry the hopes of the home crowd as the Men in Blue aim to clinch the series.
The Subhadra scheme of cricket history shows India must break records to succeed. The Indore crowd waits for a thrilling chase as the series hangs in the balance.
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