Indore: New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell has expressed immense pride following his team's historic ODI series victory against India on January 18, 2026. The Black Caps secured their first-ever ODI bilateral series win on Indian soil, marking a significant milestone in New Zealand cricket history.
Mitchell, who played a pivotal role in the series win, emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and clarity under pressure. He acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by India, particularly during the crucial partnership between Virat Kohli and Harshit Rana in the series-deciding third game. Despite the pressure, Mitchell lauded his team's ability to stay calm and execute their plans effectively.
"They had a really good partnership and there was a lot of pressure, especially considering the nature of this ground, the surface and the size of the dimensions," Mitchell said. "I was really proud of how calm the group stayed and how clear the plans were in terms of how we wanted to operate".
Mitchell's own performance throughout the series was exceptional, culminating in him being named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series. He finished the series with 352 runs, including back-to-back centuries in the second and third ODIs. His match-shaping 219-run partnership with Glenn Phillips in the final ODI proved crucial in New Zealand reaching a commanding total of 337/8. Phillips also contributed a century, scoring 106 runs off 88 balls.
Reflecting on the significance of the series win, Mitchell highlighted the collective effort and growth of the team. "A number of New Zealand teams have toured India in the past and every time you come here, you learn and grow," Mitchell stated. "But to come here with this group and achieve what we have is something the guys in the shed are really proud of. There will be some big smiles going back home".
New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell echoed Mitchell's sentiments, emphasizing the team's unity and determination. "We're the sum of all the parts, and we really try to work together as a group. That's part of the Kiwi way," Bracewell said. "We're just a small country from the bottom of the world, and we try to work together to take on some of the bigger countries in the world".
The series win holds particular significance as New Zealand were without several key players, including Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner, Tom Latham, Rachin Ravindra, and Jacob Duffy. Despite these absences, the team displayed resilience and adaptability, showcasing the depth of talent within New Zealand cricket.
Mitchell also expressed his appreciation for the experience of playing in front of the passionate Indian crowds. "We're used to pretty small crowds back in New Zealand. Then you come here and the noise people create is very special. It's amazing to be part of that," he said.
The victory was hard-fought, with India putting up a strong challenge, especially through Virat Kohli's magnificent century. Kohli's 124 off 108 balls, his 54th ODI century, kept India in contention, but ultimately proved insufficient as the hosts were bowled out for 296 in 46 overs.
Following the match, Kohli gifted Mitchell a signed jersey, acknowledging his outstanding performance throughout the series. This gesture of sportsmanship was well-received and further highlighted the respect between the two players.
The New Zealand team will now look ahead to the five-match T20I series against India, which will serve as their final preparation for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
