The India-New Zealand ODI series is poised for a thrilling conclusion as India seeks to defend their impressive home record, while New Zealand aims for their first-ever ODI series victory on Indian soil. The decisive third ODI is scheduled for January 18 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.

India's Dominance at Home Under Threat India has been a formidable force in their own backyard, not having lost a bilateral ODI series at home since March 2019 when Australia made a comeback from a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2. This record is now under serious threat as New Zealand have leveled the current series 1-1. After India's 4-wicket win in the first ODI in Vadodara, New Zealand bounced back with a convincing 7-wicket victory in Rajkot.

New Zealand's Historic Opportunity Despite touring India for bilateral ODI series since 1989, New Zealand has never managed to secure a series win. This series presents a golden opportunity for the Black Caps to rewrite history.

Key Players and Tactical Considerations India, led by Shubman Gill, will be keen to bounce back after the defeat in Rajkot. Gill has been in excellent form, scoring consecutive half-centuries in the series. KL Rahul also demonstrated his batting prowess with an unbeaten century in the second ODI. However, Daryl Mitchell's brilliant unbeaten century and Will Young's impressive innings in the second ODI underscored New Zealand's determination to win.

The Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore, known for its high-scoring nature, will likely witness a battle of batting supremacy. India has a dominant record at this venue, winning all seven of their previous ODI matches there. The team will rely on their tactical flexibility and situational awareness to overcome the challenge posed by the Kiwis. The possible inclusion of Arshdeep Singh, with his ability to swing the new ball and execute yorkers, could provide India with a different dimension to their bowling attack.

Head-to-Head Record India and New Zealand have a long-standing ODI rivalry, having played 122 matches against each other. India holds the upper hand with 63 wins, while New Zealand has won 51. One match ended in a tie, and seven had no result. In their last five encounters, India has won four matches, with New Zealand winning one.

The series decider promises to be an enthralling contest between two strong teams. India will be aiming to maintain their dominance at home, while New Zealand will be determined to achieve a historic series victory.