India made a strong start to their five-match One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand after restricting the hosts to 185 runs in the opening match at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday, 4 November 2026.
After winning the toss, Indian captain Shubman Gill elected to bowl first, a decision that paid off as India’s pace attack put New Zealand under pressure throughout their innings. The hosts were eventually bowled out for 185 in 40.2 overs.
Arshdeep Singh was India’s standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 70 runs. Gurnoor Brar also delivered an impressive performance with three wickets for 44 runs, while Anshul Kamboj picked up two wickets for 22 runs.
New Zealand struggled to build partnerships, with Tim Seifert top-scoring with 38 runs and Glenn Phillips contributing 30. Blair Tickner provided some late resistance, scoring 34 runs off just 23 deliveries, including four sixes, before being dismissed by Brar.
The match follows an exciting five-match T20 International series between the two countries, which India won 3-2 despite New Zealand claiming victories in the final two encounters. New Zealand will now be looking to recover in the ODI series after their difficult start with the bat.
The five-match ODI series will continue with the second encounter scheduled for 7 November in Wellington, followed by matches in Hamilton and Mount Maunganui.
Match update: At the time of publication, New Zealand had completed their innings on 185 runs, with India’s run chase still to come. Therefore, the final winner of the opening ODI had not yet been confirmed. The result of the chase will determine which side takes an early lead in the series.
Main image: India today
