India Faces Heavy Defeat Against New Zealand in Fourth ODI

In a disappointing fourth ODI, India was defeated by New Zealand by 244 runs, collapsing to just 89 runs in response to New Zealand's 333. Captain Shreyas Iyer analyzed the team's performance, highlighting the pitch conditions and fielding errors that contributed to the loss. Despite the setback, India leads the series 2-1, with the final match set for November 15. Will the team bounce back? Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 13, 2026, 16:50 IST

India's Struggles in the Fourth ODI

In the fourth ODI against New Zealand, the Indian cricket team suffered a significant defeat, losing by 244 runs. The batting lineup collapsed, with the team managing to score only 89 runs in response to New Zealand's total of 333 runs, achieved in their 50 overs. Following this heavy loss, captain Shreyas Iyer shared his thoughts on where the team went wrong.

After the match, Iyer noted the stark difference in pitch behavior between the two innings. New Zealand set a formidable score, leading the Indian team to believe the wicket was favorable for batting. However, during their innings, the ball swung and seamed considerably, making it challenging for the Indian batsmen to score runs. Iyer praised the New Zealand bowlers for their accurate line and length, which restricted the Indian players from playing freely.

Iyer also commended Matt Henry's performance, who took six wickets for just 27 runs, dismantling the Indian batting order by dismissing Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer without any runs on the board. Kyle Jamieson further compounded India's woes by taking out Ruturaj Gaikwad, leaving the team reeling at just 9 runs for 4 wickets.

The captain did not solely blame the batsmen for the defeat; he also pointed out fielding errors. During New Zealand's innings, Will Young was given two lifelines, with catches dropped by Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan. Young capitalized on these opportunities, scoring 125 runs off 108 balls. Iyer remarked that while dropped catches are part of the game, they can often shift the match's momentum.

Will Young's impressive innings of 125 runs and Tim Seifert's contribution of 58 runs helped New Zealand secure a strong total. Indian bowlers Axar Patel, Gurnoor Barad, and Aaqib Nabi each took two wickets, but the batting side struggled against New Zealand's bowling attack. Ishan Kishan and Axar Patel showed some resistance, but it was not enough to avert a substantial defeat.

Despite this setback, India still leads the five-match ODI series 2-1. The final match is scheduled for November 15, where the Indian team will aim to bounce back and secure the series, while New Zealand will look to level the series with a win. All eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer's leadership and the team's performance in the upcoming match.