IND vs NZ 3rd ODI 2026: Indore Pitch Report, Toss Update, and Playing XI Analysis

India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI: The Series Decider at Holkar Stadium! Who Will Lift the Trophy?

Hey everyone!

The three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand has been a cracker so far. After two thrilling games, the series is locked at 1-1. This means that today's final match, on Sunday, January 18, 2026, isn't just another game—it's a massive series decider!

As an average cricket fan, you just live for these kinds of knockout scenarios. The tension, the excitement, and the chance to witness history in the making are all right there on the line.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this massive encounter, written from one fan to another.

1. The Battleground: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore

This final clash is happening at the historic Holkar Cricket Stadium in Madhya Pradesh. This ground is like a fortress for the Indian team.

India’s Unbeaten Record: India has won all 7 ODI matches they've played here so far! That record alone is the biggest challenge the Black Caps face today.
Toss Update: The toss has happened, and India won. Captain Shubman Gill decided to bowl first. Chasing is often easier here due to the dew factor later in the evening.

2. The Pitch Report: A Batsman's Paradise or a Bowler's Nightmare?

If you love high-scoring matches, the Indore pitch is designed just for you.

Flat Deck: The pitch is expected to be flat with good bounce, making it a dream for batsmen to play their shots through the line. The ball comes onto the bat very nicely.
Tiny Boundaries: The boundaries here are famously small (around 62-63 meters). Once a batsman is set, clearing the ropes for fours and sixes becomes pretty easy.
Run-Fest History: Scores of 350+ are common here (India scored 399 and 385 in previous matches). Expect a big total today.
The Dew Factor: As the evening progresses, dew will play a major role, making it difficult for bowlers, especially spinners, to grip the ball in the second innings. This is exactly why India chose to field first.

3. The Playing XI: Who’s In and Who’s Out?

Both teams have made strategic calls regarding their lineups.

India Playing XI: India made one change today. Young speedster Arshdeep Singh has replaced the tall Prasidh Krishna. They are banking on their winning combination otherwise.
- Expected XI: Shubman Gill (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.
New Zealand Playing XI: The Kiwis decided to stick with their winning team from the last match. They want to maintain that momentum and make history today.

4. What’s At Stake?

It's more than just a series; it’s about making history.

New Zealand's Dream: The Black Caps have never, ever won an ODI series in India. They have a golden opportunity to break that long-standing record today.
India's Pride: The Indian team will want to maintain their dominance at home and spoil New Zealand’s historic plans.

This match is going to be epic! You can catch the live action on the Star Sports Network or stream it on the JioCinema app.

What’s your prediction? Which team will win today's match and the series? Drop your predictions in the comments!