Silencing an Indian crowd is one of the rarest achievements in world cricket. Doing it repeatedly, across venues, and over an entire series elevates the act into history. New Zealand have now done exactly that. With composure, tactical clarity, and fearless execution, the visitors clinched their first-ever ODI series win in India, rewriting expectations on Indian soil.
Daryl Mitchell Leads the Quiet Revolution
Few batters have mastered the art of quieting Indian crowds like Daryl Mitchell. His efforts during the series echoed memories of his World Cup semi-final hundred at the Wankhede Stadium, where even passing trains became audible amid stunned silence. This time, however, the outcome was different.
Across the series, Mitchell spent 319 balls at the crease, striking 31 fours and eight sixes to amass 352 runs. Each boundary chipped away at India’s dominance. Yet, characteristically understated, Mitchell brushed aside the significance of silencing packed stadiums, calling it “pretty normal” for New Zealand cricket, where crowds are often sparse.
Behind the modest words lay an extraordinary achievement.
Defying the Odds in India
New Zealand’s series win came against formidable odds. They became the first team in three years to beat India in a home ODI after losing the toss. They also snapped an eight-match losing streak against the hosts. Crucially, this success came with a squad far less experienced than India’s.
Eight players toured India for the first time. Two made their debuts. Five had played fewer than ten ODIs. Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s greatest ODI batter, was absent. Despite all this, New Zealand dictated terms.
Outsmarting India Through Spin
To beat India in India, New Zealand chose the unthinkable approach: outspinning the hosts. While fast bowling remained evenly matched, the visitors dominated the middle overs with both bat and ball.
Against spin, New Zealand scored 351 runs off 318 balls while losing only three wickets. India, in contrast, managed 317 runs off 354 balls for five wickets. The difference proved decisive.
Devon Conway set the tone early by reverse-sweeping Kuldeep Yadav in the opening match. Mitchell then intensified the assault, charging and sweeping Kuldeep with authority. The Indian spinner endured his worst ODI series, with an average of 60.66 and an economy of 7.28. Ravindra Jadeja, meanwhile, struggled to make an impact following his return.
Unsung Heroes Deliver
New Zealand’s spin success owed much to Michael Bracewell and debutant Jayden Lennox, neither widely known before the series. Lennox, a former greenskeeper and assembly technician, showcased exceptional control. Across long spells, he conceded only three boundaries. Bracewell matched that discipline, applying relentless pressure.
Their accuracy forced Indian batters to take risks, allowing New Zealand’s taller fast bowlers to strike at key moments. Glenn Phillips added value as both a batter and a bowler, reinforcing the team’s all-round depth.
A Win That Means More Than Numbers
Mitchell’s rapid rise in ODI cricket has placed him close to elite records. However, individual milestones mattered little. Speaking after the series, he emphasised pride in contributing to a group that continues to achieve what New Zealand teams had never done before.
New Zealand’s historic series win serves as a reminder of the power of collective belief. More importantly, it sends a clear message: even in India, dominance is not guaranteed. When preparation meets courage, history can change—quietly, decisively, and on New Zealand’s own terms.
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