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Series Decider at Holkar Stadium
The India vs New Zealand ODI series stands level at 1-1, with everything on the line in the 3rd and final ODI on January 18, 2026, at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore. With the series decider approaching, all eyes turn to the pitch – known for producing fireworks and massive totals.
The black soil surface at Indore has a reputation for being a dream for stroke-makers, offering true bounce, even carry, and quick outfield. Curators have prepared a typical ODI wicket aimed at keeping the game lively from start to finish.
Batter’s Paradise in Full Swing
Recent reports confirm a run-fest is on the cards. The pitch provides excellent value for shots, with short boundaries helping batters clear ropes easily. Historical data backs this up – high scores are common here, and the venue favors teams batting first or chasing big totals under lights.
In ODIs, Holkar Stadium has hosted seven matches so far, with India winning all of them – often in dominant, high-scoring fashion. Top-order players like Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have strong records at this ground, while New Zealand’s aggressive lineup could exploit the conditions too.
The outfield, covered in thick green grass, ensures balls race to the fence, making it tough for fielders to stop boundaries. Dew in the evening could make chasing easier in the second innings.
Bowlers Face an Uphill Battle
For bowlers, this might feel like a graveyard. Pacers get some early bounce and movement with the new ball, but once the shine wears off, the flat track offers little assistance. Spinners may find some grip later, but short boundaries limit their impact.
Variations like slower balls, cutters, and yorkers become essential. Left-arm spinners have historically done well here, so India might lean on Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav to contain runs in the middle overs.
Recent practice sessions show both teams gearing up – New Zealand players fine-tuning at the venue ahead of the big clash.
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Fan Buzz Building Up
Cricket fans are hyped for what promises to be an entertaining decider.
t’s the Decider! 🇮🇳 vs 🇳🇿 The 3rd ODI kicks off at 1:30 PM in Indore. 🏟️ Expect fireworks at the Holkar Stadium! 💥🏏 #INDvNZ #CricketTwitter #Indore
— Mahadev Book (@mahadevbook777) Jan 16, 2026
Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and other New Zealand players practicing at Holkar Stadium ahead of the IND vs NZ 3rd ODI. 🔥 #INDvNZ
— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) Jan 16, 2026
With India holding a perfect record at Indore in ODIs and the pitch set to favor big hits, expect a high-octane battle. Who will claim the series? Update your apps and tune in – this one could break records!
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