India’s batting line-up folded for a modest 209 in the fifth and final ODI against New Zealand at Mount Maunganui, handing the hosts a straightforward target of 210 to square the series.
The visitors were bowled out in the 42nd over after a top-order collapse left them struggling to build a competitive total on a pitch that offered early assistance to the seamers.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both fell cheaply, scoring seven and five respectively, as New Zealand’s attack struck early. Captain Shreyas Iyer managed 22 before departing, while Ruturaj Gaikwad contributed 18. The middle order showed some resistance through Axar Patel (46) and Ishan Kishan (46 off 58 balls), who stitched together useful partnerships to keep India in the contest. Lower-order cameos from Mohammed Siraj (14 not out) and Arshdeep Singh (14) pushed the total past the 200-mark, but it was far from enough against a disciplined Kiwi attack.
Jacob Duffy and New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner claimed three wickets apiece, while Matt Fisher picked up two. The conditions and accurate bowling restricted India’s stroke-makers for long periods. In a notable moment, Axar Patel presented fast bowler Yash Thakur with his maiden ODI cap as the Indian made his debut in the match.
New Zealand now require 210 runs to win and level the series 2-2. With the target well within reach and their bowling unit already having done the bulk of the work, the hosts will fancy their chances of finishing the series on equal terms. India, despite the fight from their middle order, will need a strong bowling performance to defend the total and clinch the series.
