Indore: India and New Zealand are set to face off in the third and final One Day International (ODI) of their multi-format series at Holkar Stadium in Indore on January 18. A significant point of interest among fans is the absence of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya from the Indian lineup.
Pandya was not included in the ODI squad due to not receiving clearance from the Centre of Excellence to bowl 10 overs. Although he is fit to play, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is prioritizing his fitness in anticipation of the T20 World Cup 2026. India has won one match and lost another in Pandya’s absence during the first two ODIs. As the team prepares for the third encounter, expectations are high for a strong performance to secure the series victory.
At the toss, India captain Shubman Gill announced that the team would bowl first, a decision made despite the Holkar Stadium’s reputation as a batter-friendly venue. He explained, “We will bowl first. That’s what we discussed leading up to the decision; batting first, New Zealand put us under pressure. One of the reasons we chose to bowl first is that the surface looks good, and we don’t expect much dew. Runs on the board would allow us to chase better. We need to vary our lengths in the middle overs, and that’s what we intend to do.” There was one change in the lineup, with Arshdeep Singh replacing Prasidh Krishna.
