India Vs New Zealand: What Happened The Last Time India Played An ODI Series In New Zealand?

India will be looking to make a strong statement when they return to New Zealand for the ODI series, but their previous experience in the country serves as a reminder of how challenging the conditions can be.

The two teams last faced each other in a bilateral ODI series on New Zealand soil during India's tour in November 2022. While the visitors arrived with plenty of expectations, the three-match series ended in disappointment for Team India, with New Zealand emerging victorious.

Interestingly, India managed to play only one complete match in the series, as rain played a major role in deciding the outcome of the contest.

Tom Latham's Masterclass Handed India a Defeat

The opening ODI was played at Eden Park in Auckland on November 25, 2022. India, led by Shikhar Dhawan, batted first and posted a competitive 306/7 in their 50 overs.

Shreyas Iyer was India's top scorer with 80 off 76 deliveries, while Dhawan contributed 72 and Shubman Gill scored a half-century (50).

Washington Sundar also provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 37 off just 16 balls, helping India cross the 300-run mark.

However, New Zealand produced a remarkable response. After losing Finn Allen and Devon Conway relatively early, captain Kane Williamson and wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham joined forces to turn the game around.

Latham played a sensational unbeaten knock of 145 off just 104 deliveries, smashing 19 boundaries and five sixes. Williamson provided excellent support with an unbeaten 94 off 98 balls.

Their unbeaten 221-run partnership guided New Zealand to 309/3 in 47.1 overs, securing a convincing seven-wicket victory with 17 balls remaining.

Latham was deservedly named Player of the Match for his match-winning performance.

Rain Ruins India's Hopes In Remaining Two ODIs

India were desperate to bounce back in the second ODI at Seddon Park in Hamilton on November 27. However, persistent rain prevented both teams from completing the contest.

India were 89/1 in 12.5 overs when the match was eventually abandoned. Shubman Gill was unbeaten on 45, while Suryakumar Yadav had scored 34 not out.

The third and final ODI at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on November 30 also failed to produce a result because of rain.

India were bowled out for 219 in 47.3 overs, with Washington Sundar scoring 51 and Shreyas Iyer contributing 49.

New Zealand were comfortably placed at 104/1 in 18 overs during their chase, with Finn Allen scoring 57. However, the weather intervened once again, forcing the officials to abandon the match.

As a result, New Zealand secured the three-match series 1-0, while the remaining two matches ended without a result.

India vs New Zealand: What Does The Previous Record Tell Us?

India's last ODI tour of New Zealand did not go according to plan. While the visitors had opportunities to compete, Latham's exceptional innings in Auckland proved decisive, and rain subsequently denied them a chance to level the series.

Interestingly, India's last ODI series victory in New Zealand came in 2018-19, when Virat Kohli's team registered a dominant 4-1 triumph in a five-match series.

India will therefore be aiming to rediscover that winning formula when they return for the upcoming five-match ODI series, beginning on November 4, 2026.

With New Zealand having won their previous ODI series against India in January 2026, the upcoming contest also presents an opportunity for the Men in Blue to respond after their 1-2 defeat at home.