The recently concluded ODI series between India and New Zealand ended in a historic heartbreak for the hosts, as the Black Caps clinched the series 1-2. This marks the first time in 37 years (since 1988) that New Zealand has defeated India in a bilateral ODI series on Indian soil.
As the dust settles on the Indore decider, here are five critical takeaways for the Indian team.
5. Prasidh Krishna
Prasidh Krishna entered the series as a potential X-factor but struggled to find rhythm. Across the first two matches, he bowled 18 overs (9 in each game), claiming 3 wickets. However, his lack of consistency and a crucial dropped catch in the second ODI led to his benching in the series decider for Arshdeep Singh.
If a specialist cannot maintain his spot in a short three-match window, his future as a permanent fixture remains in serious doubt.
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4. Shubman Gill
The transition of power has hit a speed bump. Under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, India has now struggled to secure a bilateral trophy, adding to the pressure following his previous stint in Zimbabwe.
While he scored two fifties (56, 56, and 23) this series, his inability to convert starts into match-winning knocks and tactical lapses in the middle overs suggest the “swing” of leadership is currently leaning toward the negative.
3. Rohit Sharma
Despite his legendary status, Rohit Sharma endured a dismal series, managing scores of 24, 26, and 11. This slump is baffling considering his stellar Vijay Hazare Trophy form, where he recently smashed a commanding 155 against Sikkim.
His poor shot selection in this series has ignited a firestorm on social media, with fans questioning if the “Hitman” era is nearing its end.
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2. Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja, once the world’s premier all-rounder, is facing a statistical crisis. In this series, he struggled with the bat (27 off 44 in Rajkot) and remained largely ineffective with the ball, echoing his recent dry spells against Australia and South Africa. With Axar Patel waiting in the wings, Jadeja’s ODI career appears to be on thin ice.
1. Virat Kohli
If there was any doubt, this series proved that Virat Kohli remains the undisputed king. While the “new stars” faltered, Kohli stood tall with scores of 93, 23, and a magnificent 124 in the Indore decider.
Despite his 54th ODI ton, he lacked support from the other end, proving that even at 37, his hunger for the 2027 World Cup makes him India’s most vital asset.