Rain Disrupts Third ODI as India Maintains Series Lead Against New Zealand

Third ODI Abandoned Due to Rain

The third One Day International (ODI) match between India and New Zealand at Seddon Park in Hamilton was unfortunately abandoned because of rain.

Currently, India leads the five-match series 2-0, meaning the worst outcome for them would be a drawn series. Captain Shubman Gill, along with KL Rahul, will depart for preparations for the Test series, while vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is set to take charge for the remaining two ODIs.

Earlier in the match, Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to field first.

Rain has impacted all three matches played so far.

In the first ODI, New Zealand set a target of 185 runs, but Arshdeep Singh led India's bowling with a remarkable four-wicket haul. Gurnoor Brar contributed significantly with 3 wickets for 44 runs in 9.2 overs, while Anshul Kamboj took 2 wickets for 22 runs in 10 overs, effectively dismantling New Zealand's batting order.

Virat Kohli showcased his prowess by scoring 74 runs off 51 balls, including 13 fours and a six, as India successfully chased down a revised target of 143 runs in 32 overs, despite interruptions from rain.

In the second ODI, India chose to bowl first, with Gurnoor Brar emerging as the star performer, taking 4 wickets for just 30 runs, which helped dismiss New Zealand for a mere 134 runs in 41 overs.

During the chase for 135 runs, India faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 47 for 4, with key players like Shubman Gill (0), Rohit Sharma (23), and Virat Kohli (7) unable to contribute significantly. However, Shreyas Iyer (30 runs off 46 balls) and KL Rahul (26 not out off 38 balls) managed to stabilize the innings. Rain interrupted the game when India was just four runs ahead of the DLS par score, granting them a vital win and keeping their series victory hopes alive.