Kamboj and Arshdeep dismantle New Zealand lineup
India opened their 2026 tour of New Zealand with a clinical performance at Eden Park, securing a five-wicket victory in the first ODI. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Indian attack dominated the New Zealand batting order, restricting the hosts to 185 all out in 40.2 overs.
Tim Seifert provided the most resistance for the hosts, top-scoring with 38 off 43 balls, while a late cameo from Blair Tickner, who struck 34 off just 23 deliveries, helped push the total toward the 185-run mark. Despite those efforts, the Indian bowling unit, supported by Gurnoor Brar, remained in control throughout the first half of the match, setting up a straightforward chase for the visitors.
Kohli anchors successful chase after early wobble
The pursuit of 143 did not begin according to plan for India. The innings suffered an immediate setback when captain Rohit Sharma fell with the score at just 1, marking a tense start to the chase. However, any hopes of a New Zealand comeback were quickly extinguished by a composed performance from
Supported by Shubman Gill, Kohli navigated the target with precision, ensuring India reached the required total with five wickets in hand. The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the five-match ODI series. With the bowling unit firing in tandem and the batting lineup showing resilience under pressure, India will look to carry this momentum into the remainder of the series as they continue their tour of New Zealand.
