Batters need to fire as India targets series win

The Indian cricket team aims for a series victory in the fifth and final ODI against New Zealand at Mount Maunganui on Sunday, November 15, 2026. Despite a 2-1 series lead, India suffered a significant defeat in the fourth ODI on November 13, 2026, where they were bowled out for 89 runs while chasing 334. Stand-in captain Shreyas Iyer noted that conditions favored bowlers in the second innings, particularly highlighting the impact of Matt Henry.

With the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa approaching, India seeks improved performance on pace-friendly surfaces. Key players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli face a final opportunity to perform on this tour. New Zealand, having not lost a home bilateral ODI series in seven years, aims to level the series in the match starting at 7.30 a.m.

IST.