India vs New Zealand Prediction: Who Will Win IND vs NZ 3rd ODI Match on 18th January 2026?
The India vs New Zealand prediction for the 3rd and final ODI of the New Zealand tour of India 2026 promises a high-intensity series decider at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, on Sunday, 18th January 2026. With the series tied at 1–1, this contest will decide the winner of the ODI series and carries immense significance for both teams. The India vs New Zealand prediction becomes even more intriguing given India’s strong historical dominance at home and New Zealand’s confidence after a commanding win in the previous match.
India suffered a seven-wicket defeat in Rajkot, where their top order collapsed early. However, positives emerged in the form of Shubman Gill’s return to form and KL Rahul’s sublime unbeaten century. Despite posting 284 runs, India were unable to apply pressure with the ball, as New Zealand batters chased the target with remarkable ease. Heading into Indore, a venue known for high-scoring encounters, India will be keen to correct their mistakes and reassert their dominance. This context significantly shapes the India vs New Zealand prediction, as the hosts rarely lose back-to-back ODI matches at home.
New Zealand, on the other hand, are riding high on confidence after their clinical performance. Daryl Mitchell has been exceptional throughout the series, while Will Young has provided solid support at the top. The Black Caps’ bowling, especially in the middle overs, has troubled India, though their death bowling remains an area of concern. Historically, New Zealand have struggled to win ODI series in India, and this match presents them with a rare opportunity to script history.
Considering venue conditions, recent form, and squad depth, the India vs New Zealand prediction slightly favors India. However, New Zealand’s momentum and fearless approach ensure this will be a fiercely contested decider.
- Series level at 1–1, winner takes the ODI series.
- Holkar Stadium expected to produce a high-scoring match.
- KL Rahul and Daryl Mitchell are key batters in form.
- India hold historical and home advantage.
Match Details
| Match | IND vs NZ, 3rd ODI |
|---|---|
| Series | New Zealand Tour of India 2026 |
| Date | Sunday, 18 January 2026 |
| Time | 1:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore |
Team Preview
India Preview
India head into the decider under pressure after a rare comprehensive home defeat. Their batting lineup failed to fire collectively in Rajkot, losing Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer cheaply. While Shubman Gill’s 56 and KL Rahul’s unbeaten 112 were major positives, India’s inability to cross 300 on a good batting track proved costly.
India’s middle order remains strong on paper, but consistency has been an issue. Ravindra Jadeja has not had the impact expected of him in this series, both with bat and ball. Nitish Kumar Reddy has shown promise but will need support from senior players. The bowling attack, usually India’s strength at home, looked toothless in the previous match, particularly the spin department. Kuldeep Yadav has gone wicketless in consecutive games and will be under scrutiny.
The potential inclusion of Arshdeep Singh could add swing and variation, especially at Indore, where new-ball bowlers can find movement early. Mohammed Siraj’s experience and Prasidh Krishna’s pace will be vital in containing New Zealand’s aggressive top order. India’s overall record at Holkar Stadium and their dominance in home ODIs make them confident contenders, but execution will be key.
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand delivered one of their most convincing ODI performances in India in the previous match. Their bowlers executed plans brilliantly, with Kristian Clarke dismantling India’s top order in the middle overs. Although they conceded runs at the death, restricting India below 300 was a crucial achievement.
Batting has been New Zealand’s biggest strength in the series. Daryl Mitchell has been outstanding, amassing 215 runs and anchoring the chase with an unbeaten 131 in Rajkot. Will Young’s 87 provided stability, while Glenn Phillips and Devon Conway add explosiveness and depth. The batting lineup looks settled and fearless.
Bowling-wise, New Zealand rely on discipline rather than express pace. Kyle Jamieson offers bounce and seam, while spin options like Michael Bracewell help control the middle overs. Death bowling remains an area to improve, especially on a flat Indore track. Still, with the series decider at stake, New Zealand will approach this match with confidence and nothing to lose.
Team Squad
India Squad:
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh
New Zealand Squad:
Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Zakary Foulkes, Jayden Lennox, Kristian Clarke, Mitchell Hay, Kyle Jamieson
Probable Playing XI
India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Jayden Lennox, Mitchell Hay
India vs New Zealand Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 18th January
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | KL Rahul |
| Batters | Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Daryl Mitchell, Will Young |
| All-rounders | Ravindra Jadeja, Michael Bracewell |
| Bowlers | Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Kyle Jamieson, Kristian Clarke |
This fantasy team focuses on top-order batters and all-rounders, considering the batting-friendly nature of Indore. KL Rahul is a must-pick due to his excellent form and wicketkeeping points. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli provide stability and big-run potential. Daryl Mitchell and Will Young are New Zealand’s most consistent batters and can deliver high fantasy returns. Jadeja and Bracewell offer dual value through batting and bowling. Among bowlers, Siraj and Jamieson are likely to exploit early movement, while Kuldeep and Clarke can pick wickets in the middle overs.
Captain Choices: KL Rahul, Daryl Mitchell
Vice-Captain Choices: Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja
Players to Avoid: Jayden Lennox, Mitchell Hay (limited fantasy impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – India (Why?)
India start as favorites due to their dominant home record, stronger overall squad, and familiarity with Indore conditions. Historically, India rarely lose consecutive ODIs at home, especially in series deciders. Their batting depth, led by Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul, is far superior on paper. The bowling attack, despite a poor outing last match, has proven match-winners like Siraj and Kuldeep. New Zealand have momentum, but pressure situations in India often favor the hosts. These factors collectively give India the edge.
India ODI History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1074 | 571 | 449 | 44 | 10 |
India are one of the most successful ODI teams with a strong home-winning percentage.
New Zealand ODI History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 850 | 397 | 403 | 44 | 6 |
New Zealand are competitive globally but less dominant in away ODIs.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | IND Won | NZ Won | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 122 | 63 | 51 | 7 | 1 |
India hold a clear advantage in overall ODI head-to-head record.
Pitch Report – Holkar Stadium, Indore
The Indore pitch is known for being flat and batting-friendly, with short boundaries encouraging aggressive stroke play. Fast bowlers can find some movement early, but once batters settle, scoring becomes easy. Spinners often struggle unless they vary pace effectively. A first-innings score of 300+ is competitive here.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Indore on match day with temperatures ranging between 22°C and 28°C. Humidity will be moderate, and there is no threat of rain. Conditions are ideal for a full 50-over contest, favoring batters throughout the day.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network, with digital streaming available on JioHotstar. Live scores, commentary, and highlights will be accessible across platforms.
Toss Prediction
Given the flat nature of the surface and dew in the evening, teams may prefer to bowl first. New Zealand are predicted to win the toss and opt to field.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
For India, KL Rahul is the most probable top scorer due to his excellent form and ability to play long innings. Shubman Gill is another strong contender. For New Zealand, Daryl Mitchell remains the biggest batting threat, having dominated the series so far.
In bowling, Mohammed Siraj is expected to be India’s key wicket-taker with the new ball. For New Zealand, Kyle Jamieson could exploit bounce and extract early breakthroughs.
Match Prediction
India’s strong home record, batting depth, and ability to bounce back in pressure situations give them a clear edge in this decider. New Zealand will fight hard, but sustaining momentum in Indore conditions is challenging. If India bat to their potential and tighten their bowling plans, they should seal the series.
Final Prediction: India will win the match.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – IND vs NZ 3rd ODI
When is the India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI being played?
The 3rd ODI between India and New Zealand will be played on Sunday, 18 January 2026.
Where will the India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI take place?
The match is scheduled at Holkar Cricket Stadium, a venue known for high-scoring ODI encounters.
What time does the IND vs NZ 3rd ODI start?
The match will begin at 1:30 PM IST, with the toss taking place around 1:00 PM IST.
What is the current status of the ODI series?
The ODI series is tied 1–1, making the 3rd ODI a series decider.
Who is the leading run-scorer for India in this series?
KL Rahul is the leading run-scorer for India in the ongoing ODI series.
Who is the leading run-scorer for New Zealand in the series?
Daryl Mitchell has been the top run-getter for New Zealand so far.
Which team has a better head-to-head record in ODIs?
India have a superior head-to-head record against New Zealand in ODI cricket.
What type of pitch can be expected at Holkar Stadium?
Holkar Stadium generally offers a flat, batting-friendly pitch where scores above 280–300 are common.
Legal Disclaimer: All content on cricketwebs.com is provided strictly for informational, analytical, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote, support, or facilitate betting, wagering, or gambling in any form. This website does not offer betting odds, wagering advice, or monetary recommendations. Laws relating to online betting and gambling vary by jurisdiction and may be restricted or illegal in certain regions, including parts of India. Users are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable local laws. Content is intended for audiences in jurisdictions where such material is lawful. cricketwebs.com accepts no liability for actions taken by users based on this content.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricketwebs on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
