India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI: Mitchell Anchors as India Keep NZ in Check

India made a disciplined start after opting to bowl first in the 3rd ODI against New Zealand, restricting the visitors to 101/3 in 21 overs as the middle phase of the innings unfolded under controlled conditions.

After an early setback, Daryl Mitchell steadied the New Zealand innings with a calm and responsible knock. Batting with assurance, Mitchell remained unbeaten on 51 off 56 balls, striking six boundaries and a six, ensuring New Zealand avoided a collapse. He found support from Glenn Phillips, who was batting on 14, though the scoring rate remained under pressure at 4.81 runs per over.

Earlier, India struck at regular intervals. Henry Nicholls departed for a duck, while Devon Conway was dismissed cheaply for 5, leaving New Zealand in early trouble. Will Young attempted to rebuild with a patient 30 off 41 balls, but his dismissal stalled momentum just as the partnership began to develop.

India’s bowling attack showed good variety and control. Harshit Rana was the standout performer so far, picking up 2 wickets for 33 runs in 6 overs, including the key scalp of Will Young. Arshdeep Singh provided early breakthroughs with the new ball, conceding just 24 runs in 5 overs. Mohammed Siraj was economical, giving away only 14 runs in 4 overs, while the spinners, including Kuldeep Yadav, kept things tight in the middle overs.

With several recognized batters yet to come—Mitchell Hay, Michael Bracewell, Zakary Foulkes, and Kyle Jamieson—New Zealand will be aiming to push past a competitive total in the final overs. However, India’s disciplined bowling effort has ensured they remain firmly in control as the match heads toward its decisive phase.

The contest now hinges on whether New Zealand’s lower-middle order can accelerate, or if India can capitalize and restrict them to a below-par total in this crucial 3rd ODI.