Get ready for a series decider! The India vs New Zealand ODI series is perfectly poised at 1-1, and it all comes down to the final showdown at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. After New Zealand staged a spectacular comeback in the second match, the pressure is on a Rohit Sharma-less Indian side, now led by the dynamic Shubman Gill, to defend their home turf. New Zealand, buoyed by a masterful chase, will be looking to clinch a rare series victory on Indian soil, making this a high-stakes finale you won’t want to miss.
The tour has been a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. India kicked things off with a comfortable victory in the first ODI, showcasing the depth of their batting and the potency of their attack. They looked set to seal the series, but the Kiwis had other plans. In the second match, India posted a competitive total of 284/7, thanks in large part to a sublime century from KL Rahul, who anchored the innings with a brilliant 112 not out. It seemed like a defendable score, but New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell emerged as the hero of the day. His breathtaking unbeaten 131, supported by a solid knock from Will Young, powered the Black Caps to a stunning 7-wicket victory as they chased down the target of 285 with ease.
This sets the stage for a thrilling conclusion in Indore. For India, this match is about more than just winning the series; it’s about pride and maintaining their formidable home record. A loss here would mark only their second bilateral ODI series defeat on home ground in recent memory, a statistic the team will be desperate to avoid. Captain Shubman Gill, stepping into a significant leadership role, faces his first major test. He will need to rally his troops and ensure they are firing on all cylinders to counter a confident New Zealand side. The Indian batting lineup, featuring stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, will need to put a formidable total on the board, while the bowlers must find a way to contain the Kiwi batsmen who proved so destructive in the previous game.
For New Zealand, this is a golden opportunity. Having leveled the series against the odds, they carry significant momentum into the decider. A series win in India is one of the toughest assignments in world cricket, and Michael Bracewell’s team is now just one good performance away from achieving it. Their top order has shown form, and Daryl Mitchell’s incredible innings has given them a blueprint for success in Indian conditions. They know that another disciplined performance with both bat and ball could see them lift the trophy.
The setting for this epic clash, the Holkar Stadium, adds another layer of intrigue. The venue is renowned as a batsman’s paradise. The pitch, made of black soil, offers true bounce and pace, allowing batters to play their strokes freely. The small boundaries further tilt the scales in favor of high-scoring encounters, making it a dream for power-hitters and a nightmare for bowlers. The weather forecast for Indore is clear, with a pleasant temperature of around 25 ° C expected, meaning conditions will be perfect for cricket. While dew can be a factor in day-night games here, its impact might be slightly less pronounced in a match starting in the afternoon, though captains will still weigh it heavily at the toss.
This match is not just a treat for cricket fans but also a goldmine for fantasy sports enthusiasts. For those building their Dream11 teams, the batting-friendly nature of the Holkar pitch is the most important factor to consider. Loading your fantasy XI with top-order batsmen and aggressive middle-order players from both sides could be the key to success. Players like KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Daryl Mitchell, and Will Young will be hot properties. This preview will dive deep into everything you need to craft the perfect fantasy team, from detailed player stats and head-to-head battles to pitch analysis and predicted playing XIs, ensuring you are fully equipped for this series-deciding contest.
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction 3rd ODI: Match Details
Get all the essential information for the series-deciding final match between India and New Zealand right here. This clash promises to be a thriller as both teams fight for the trophy.
- Match: India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI
- Date: Friday, January 18, 2026
- Time: 1:30 PM IST
- Venue: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
- Live Streaming: The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and available for streaming on JioHotstar app and website.
The Holkar Stadium is famously a high-scoring ground. Its black soil pitch provides true bounce and carry, while the small boundaries encourage aggressive batting. The average first innings score in ODIs here is around 300, with teams batting first having a statistical advantage. However, the dew factor could influence the captain’s decision at the toss.
Series Scorecard: India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2026
The series is currently level, making this final match a winner-takes-all contest. New Zealand’s incredible chase in the second ODI has set up a grandstand finish.
| Match | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Vadodara | India won by 45 runs |
| 2nd | Rajkot | New Zealand won by 7 wickets |
| 3rd | Indore | Series Decider |
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Team News & Predicted Playing XI
With the series on the line, both India and New Zealand will be fine-tuning their strategies and combinations to gain an edge in the final ODI. Team selection becomes crucial on a high-scoring ground like Holkar, where every player’s role is magnified. Let’s break down the squad news and the likely playing XIs for this pivotal encounter.
India Team News & Squad Update
India’s primary concern will be their bowling performance in the second ODI, where they failed to defend a solid total of 284. The pacers, particularly Prasidh Krishna, proved expensive, which could prompt a change in the fast-bowling department for the decider. Management will likely look to bring in a bowler who can provide better control and wicket-taking options in the middle and death overs.
Arshdeep Singh is the leading candidate to come into the side. His ability to swing the new ball and execute yorkers at the death makes him a valuable asset, especially in a high-pressure final. He could replace Prasidh Krishna to offer a different angle and more variety to the pace attack alongside Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana. The rest of the batting lineup is expected to remain unchanged. KL Rahul’s magnificent century in the previous game has cemented his place, while Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer will form the core of the middle order. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja provides balance with his multi-faceted skills.
India’s Full Squad for the ODI Series: Shubman Gill (c), KL Rahul (wk), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh.
India’s Predicted Playing XI for the 3rd ODI:
- Shubman Gill (c): The captain will be eager to lead from the front with a significant score after a quiet series by his standards.
- Rohit Sharma: Rohit Sharma persists in IND XI for 3rd ODI decider despite modest 1st ODI 26– eyes explosive Holkar redemption chasing 14,000 List-A milestone
- KL Rahul (wk): In sublime form after his unbeaten 112, he is the backbone of the batting lineup.
- Virat Kohli: A master of the big occasion, Kohli will be key to navigating the pressure of a series decider.
- Shreyas Iyer: His ability to attack spin in the middle overs will be vital on the Indore pitch.
- Ravindra Jadeja: A three-dimensional player who can change the game with bat, ball, or in the field.
- Nitish Reddy: The young all-rounder provides depth in the lower-middle order and a handy seam-bowling option.
- Harshit Rana: He has shown promise with his pace and bounce and will look to make a bigger impact.
- Kuldeep Yadav: India’s primary spin weapon, his variations will be crucial in breaking partnerships.
- Mohammed Siraj: The leader of the pace attack will be responsible for providing early breakthroughs.
- Arshdeep Singh: Likely to be included for his death-bowling skills and ability to swing the ball.
New Zealand Team News & Squad Update
New Zealand heads into the final match with immense confidence and momentum. Their spectacular chase in the second ODI showed their batting lineup has the firepower and temperament to succeed in Indian conditions. With no major injury concerns reported, the Black Caps are unlikely to make wholesale changes to a winning combination.
Daryl Mitchell was the architect of their victory with a stunning century, and he remains their most dangerous player. The top order, featuring Will Young and Henry Nicholls, has also looked in good touch. Captain Michael Bracewell has led the side astutely and contributes significantly with both bat and ball. The bowling attack, led by the towering Kyle Jamieson, will need to be disciplined to contain India’s powerful batting on a flat track. Kristian Clarke was impressive in the last match, and New Zealand will count on him again to provide key breakthroughs.
New Zealand’s Full Squad for the ODI Series: Michael Bracewell (c), Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay (wk), Kyle Jamieson, Zak Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Jayden Lennox.
New Zealand’s Predicted Playing XI for the 3rd ODI:
- Henry Nicholls: Provides stability at the top of the order and will look to build a solid platform.
- Will Young: Coming off a confident 87, he has adapted well to the conditions.
- Devon Conway: A classy left-hander who can anchor the innings or accelerate when needed.
- Daryl Mitchell: The man in form, his power-hitting makes him a constant threat to the Indian bowlers.
- Glenn Phillips: An explosive middle-order batsman and a livewire in the field.
- Mitchell Hay (wk): The wicketkeeper-batsman will aim to contribute crucial runs down the order.
- Michael Bracewell (c): The skipper provides excellent balance with his off-spin and lower-order hitting.
- Kyle Jamieson: His height generates extra bounce, making him a difficult proposition for any batsman.
- Zak Foulkes: The seamer will have the tough job of containing runs in the powerplay and death overs.
- Kristian Clarke: After a three-wicket haul in the last game, his confidence will be high.
- Jayden Lennox: The left-arm spinner offers control and will be tasked with tying down the Indian middle order.
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Holkar Stadium Pitch Report
The stage is set at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore for the decisive 3rd ODI between India and New Zealand. If history and conditions are any indicators, we are in for a run-fest. The Holkar Stadium is widely regarded as one of the most batting-friendly venues in India, often serving as a graveyard for bowlers and a playground for stroke-makers.
The Surface: Black Soil and True Bounce
The pitch at Holkar Stadium is typically made of black soil, which is known for its firm nature. Unlike red soil pitches that might crumble and assist spinners early on, the black soil here binds well, offering true bounce and consistent carry. This means the ball comes onto the bat nicely, allowing batsmen to trust the bounce and play their shots through the line without much hesitation.
For the upcoming decider, expect a hard, flat track with a light covering of grass to hold it together. This surface will likely remain good for batting throughout the 100 overs, although there might be a hint of assistance for the pacers with the new ball in the first hour due to early afternoon moisture.
Boundary Dimensions and Scoring Patterns
Adding to the bowlers’ misery are the stadium’s dimensions. Holkar Stadium has significantly smaller boundaries compared to other major Indian venues. The square boundaries are particularly short, meaning even mistimed shots have a high probability of sailing over the ropes for six.
Historically, this venue has seen massive scores. The average first innings score in ODIs here hovers around the 300-run mark. India famously posted their highest ODI total at this venue– a colossal 418/5 against the West Indies back in 2011. In the six ODIs played here, scores of 290+ are par, and anything less than 320 might feel under-par given the lightning-fast outfield and small boundary ropes.
Spin vs. Pace: Who Holds the Key?
While the pitch is a highway for batters, it’s not completely devoid of hope for the bowling unit.
Pacers: Fast bowlers who can hit the deck hard and use variations like cutters and slower bouncers will be more effective than those relying purely on swing. The true bounce can be used to unsettle batters with short-pitched deliveries.
Spinners: As the game progresses, especially in the first innings, spinners might find some turn. However, the margin for error is non-existent. Wrist spinners (like Kuldeep Yadav) who can turn the ball both ways tend to fare better here than finger spinners, as they can induce false strokes even on flat tracks.
The Toss and the Dew Factor
The toss could play a pivotal role in this decider. Statistically, teams batting first have won 5 out of the 6 ODIs played at this venue. This suggests that putting runs on the board and applying scoreboard pressure is a viable strategy.
However, the “dew factor” is the great equalizer in day-night games in India during January. Heavy dew is expected to set in during the second innings, making the ball wet and slippery. This makes it incredibly difficult for bowlers to grip the ball, effectively nullifying spinners and making yorkers hard to execute for pacers.
Strategy Verdict: Despite the historical bias toward batting first, the captain winning the toss is highly likely to bowl first. The threat of dew making the chase easier in the second half often outweighs the pressure of chasing in a final. A target of 330-340 is chaseable here if the dew arrives on time.
In summary, fantasy managers should load their teams with top-order batters and power hitters. Bowlers who bowl at the death in the first innings (before dew) or those with high wicket-taking strike rates are your best bets in the bowling department.
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Dream11 Top Picks
Crafting the perfect Dream11 team for a high-stakes final on a batting paradise like Holkar Stadium requires a careful blend of in-form players and proven performers. Runs are expected to flow, so prioritizing batsmen and all-rounders is a wise strategy. Here are the must-have top picks who can deliver maximum fantasy points in this crucial encounter.
Top Wicketkeeper Pick
KL Rahul (India): Fresh off a magnificent 112 * in the second ODI, KL Rahul is arguably the most in-form player in this series. He demonstrated his class by anchoring the Indian innings and has the ability to accelerate at will. Batting in the top order and taking the gloves, Rahul offers dual avenues for points through his batting and wicketkeeping dismissals, making him an essential pick and a strong captaincy candidate.
Top Batsmen Picks
- Virat Kohli (India): In a high-pressure series decider, you can never count out Virat Kohli. He thrives in crunch situations and possesses an exceptional record in ODI run-chases. On a flat Indore track where the ball comes onto the bat, Kohli’s classic strokeplay can fetch a huge score. His ability to convert starts into big hundreds makes him a safe and reliable choice for your fantasy lineup.
- Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand): The hero of New Zealand’s stunning victory in the last match, Daryl Mitchell, is in destructive form. His phenomenal unbeaten 131 showcased his power-hitting and ability to handle pressure. He is a key player in the Kiwi middle order and will be high on confidence. Given the batting-friendly conditions, Mitchell is a must-have for his potential to single-handedly win the match.
- Will Young (New Zealand): Providing solid support to Mitchell in the chase was Will Young, who scored a composed 87. He has looked comfortable against the Indian bowlers and has shown he can build an innings effectively. As a top-order batsman, he gets ample opportunity to score big, making him a valuable asset for your team.
Top All-Rounder Picks
- Ravindra Jadeja (India): A true three-dimensional player, Ravindra Jadeja is a fantasy goldmine. He contributes in every department: he can score quick runs down the order, he is a disciplined and wicket-taking bowler in the middle overs, and he is electric in the field, capable of earning points through catches and run-outs. His all-round skills make him a default selection in any fantasy XI.
- Michael Bracewell (New Zealand): The Kiwi captain leads by example. Bracewell is a handy off-spinner who can chip in with crucial wickets and is more than capable with the bat in the lower-middle order. His all-round utility provides great balance to a fantasy team and ensures he is always in the game, ready to contribute points.
Top Bowler Picks
- Kuldeep Yadav (India): On a pitch that offers little for most bowlers, a wrist-spinner like Kuldeep Yadav becomes a vital asset. His variations and ability to deceive batsmen in the air make him a genuine wicket-taker, even on flat surfaces. He is India’s primary attacking weapon in the middle overs and can break crucial partnerships.
- Kristian Clarke (New Zealand): Kristian Clarke was the standout bowler for the Black Caps in the second ODI, finishing with figures of 3/56. His performance will have boosted his confidence, and he has shown he can take wickets at important junctures. He is a shrewd pick who can trouble the Indian batting lineup and deliver valuable fantasy points.
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Best Dream11 Team Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
Choosing the right Captain and Vice-Captain is often the difference between winning big and finishing average in fantasy leagues. For this high-octane series decider at the batting-friendly Holkar Stadium, you want leaders who are guaranteed to face plenty of deliveries or contribute in multiple departments.
Safe Options (Small Leagues)
KL Rahul (India):
KL Rahul is arguably the safest choice for the Captain’s armband in Small Leagues. His unbeaten 112 in the second ODI was a masterclass in pacing an innings. As the wicketkeeper, he also guarantees additional points through catches and stumpings. Given his current form and position in the batting order, he is a low-risk, high-reward option.
Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand):
You simply can not ignore the man who single-handedly leveled the series. Mitchell’s 131 * was not a fluke; he has been consistently hitting the ball well. On a flat Indore track, he is likely to find the boundaries with ease again. He is a perfect Vice-Captain choice for those looking to ride the “hot hand” theory.
Risky/Differential Options (Grand Leagues)
Shubman Gill (India):
If you are playing Grand Leagues, you need a differential. Shubman Gill fits the bill perfectly. He hasn’t set the series on fire yet, which might lower his ownership percentage as a Captain. However, Gill loves batting on flat Indian decks, and the Holkar Stadium is tailor-made for his style of play. A big “captain’s knock” is due, making him a smart gamble for high-risk teams.
Ravindra Jadeja (India):
For a Vice-Captain pick that covers all bases, look no further than Jadeja. In a game where bowlers might struggle, his tight bowling in the middle overs can earn wicket points, and his finishing ability with the bat is elite. If the top order falters, Jadeja becomes the most valuable player on the park.
C/VC Quick Guide
| Player | Team | Role | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| KL Rahul | IND | WK/Bat | Small League Captain |
| Daryl Mitchell | NZ | Bat | Small League VC / Captain |
| Shubman Gill | IND | Bat | Grand League Captain |
| Ravindra Jadeja | IND | All-Rounder | Grand League VC |
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Winning Strategies for IND vs NZ 3rd ODI
The final showdown is here. With the series locked at 1-1, the 3rd ODI between India and New Zealand at Holkar Stadium isn’t just a battle for the trophy– it’s the ultimate opportunity for fantasy cricket enthusiasts to cash in. Holkar Stadium is synonymous with runs, sixes, and fantasy points galore. Building a winning Dream11 team for this high-octane decider requires more than just picking the big names; it demands a strategic understanding of the venue, player roles, and match scenarios.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to construct the perfect fantasy XI, from safe small league combinations to high-risk, high-reward grand league strategies.
Analyzing the Dream11 Landscape for Holkar Stadium
Before we dive into specific player selections, let’s establish the ground rules for this specific venue. The Holkar Stadium in Indore is a batter’s paradise with small boundaries and a flat deck.
Fantasy Implication 1: Batting Dominance. You can not afford to be light on batting. Top-order batsmen who face the maximum number of deliveries are gold here. A score of 300 is par, meaning at least two or three batsmen will likely score 70+ runs.
Fantasy Implication 2: Death Bowlers over Spinners. While spinners might get some turn, the small boundaries make them high-risk. Pacers who bowl at the death (overs 40-50) often pick up cheap wickets as batsmen slog, making them more valuable than middle-over spinners who might just be defensive.
Fantasy Implication 3: The Chasing Advantage. Due to the dew factor expected in the second innings, chasing becomes slightly easier. Batsmen from the chasing team (especially the top 3) should be prioritized in your combinations.
Player Analysis & Selection Strategy
To build a balanced team, we need to break down the player pool into tiers based on their form and potential for this specific match.
Wicket-Keepers (WK)
- KL Rahul (IND – 9.0 Credits): After his match-defining 112 * in the last game, Rahul is the consensus number one pick. His role at No. 5 might seem low, but India has been losing early wickets, bringing him into play with plenty of overs left. Plus, he guarantees catch points. Verdict: Must-have for Small Leagues.
- Devon Conway (NZ – 8.5 Credits): Listed often in the batter or WK section depending on the platform, Conway is a class act. He missed out in the last game but loves batting on true surfaces. If he opens, he is a massive threat. Verdict: excellent differential if you want to fade Rahul or play two WKs.
- Mitchell Hay (NZ – 7.5 Credits): A budget enabler. If you are short on credits for premium all-rounders, Hay is a decent filler, but don’t expect massive returns compared to the top two.
Batters (BAT)
Virat Kohli (IND – 9.0 Credits): The King of Chases. If India bowls first, Kohli becomes a non-negotiable option for Captaincy. His record at Indore is decent, but his hunger in deciders is legendary.
Daryl Mitchell (NZ – 9.0 Credits): The man of the moment. His 131 * was a masterclass in hitting against spin and pace alike. His high backlift and power game are suited perfectly for Holkar’s small dimensions.
Shubman Gill (IND – 8.5 Credits): The Indian captain has had a quiet series. However, this is exactly the kind of flat track where he usually scores “daddy hundreds.” In Grand Leagues, he is the perfect Captain choice because many will overlook him for Rahul or Mitchell.
Shreyas Iyer (IND – 8.0 Credits): A spin basher. If New Zealand operates with Santner or Bracewell in the middle overs, Iyer is the man India will trust to take them down. A solid mid-range pick.
Will Young (NZ – 7.5 Credits): A revelation in the last match. At 7.5 credits, he offers incredible value. He opens the batting, giving him the best opportunity to score points.
All-Rounders (AR)
Ravindra Jadeja (IND – 9.0 Credits): The MVP of fantasy cricket. Even if he goes for runs, he usually picks up a wicket or two and contributes 30-odd runs with the bat. His fielding points are a bonus.
Michael Bracewell (NZ – 8.5 Credits): As captain, he bowls himself in crucial phases and bats ahead of the tail. He is a safe 40-50 point player in almost every game.
Nitish Reddy (IND – 7.0 Credits): The budget pick of the match. If he plays, he allows you to fit in expensive stars like Kohli and Mitchell. He bowls a few overs and can hit long sixes.
Bowlers (BOWL).
Kuldeep Yadav (IND – 8.5 Credits): High risk, high reward. On a small ground, he could go for 70 runs or pick up 4 wickets. In Grand Leagues, he is a gamble worth taking.
Mohammed Siraj (IND – 8.5 Credits): His new ball burst is lethal. If New Zealand bats first, Siraj is essential to pick up early wickets before the pitch flattens out completely.
Kristian Clarke (NZ – 7.5 Credits): Impressed everyone with his 3-fer. He bowls difficult overs and has a knack for breaking partnerships.
Team Combinations & Strategies.
Here are four distinct team structures tailored for different risk appetites.
Strategy 1: Small League Safe Team (Head-to-Head & 3-Member)
- Objective: Minimize risk. Pick high-ownership players so you don’t lose if a popular player performs well.
- Structure: 1 WK – 4 BAT – 2 AR – 4 BOWL.
- WK: KL Rahul (VC).
- BAT: V Kohli (C), D Mitchell, S Gill, W Young.
- AR: R Jadeja, M Bracewell.
- BOWL: K Yadav, M Siraj, K Clarke, A Singh.
- Logic: This team covers the top order of both sides and the death bowlers. Kohli and Rahul are the safest C/VC choices because of their consistency. We avoid risky budget picks here.
Strategy 2: The “Batting Paradise” Grand League Team.
- Objective: Maximize batting points. Assume a score of 350 vs 340.
- Structure: 2 WK – 5 BAT – 1 AR – 3 BOWL.
- WK: KL Rahul, D Conway.
- BAT: S Gill (C), V Kohli, S Iyer, D Mitchell, G Phillips.
- AR: R Jadeja.
- BOWL: M Siraj, K Jamieson, A Singh.
- Logic: This team assumes the bowlers will get hammered. We stack the team with top 5 batsmen from both sides. Shubman Gill is Captain because if he clicks on this track, he scores 150+.
Strategy 3: The “New Zealand Win” Variant.
- Objective: Back the underdog. Assume NZ wins convincingly.
- Structure: 1 WK – 4 BAT – 3 AR – 3 BOWL.
- WK: D Conway.
- BAT: D Mitchell (C), W Young, H Nicholls, V Kohli.
- AR: M Bracewell (VC), G Phillips, R Jadeja.
- BOWL: K Clarke, K Jamieson, M Siraj.
- Logic: Here we captain Daryl Mitchell and VC Michael Bracewell. We load up on NZ players and only keep the absolute essentials from India (Kohli/Jadeja). This is a great team for Mega Contests, where 80% of users will back India.
Strategy 4: The “Bowling Differential” Team.
- Objective: Bet against the pitch report. Assume a collapse or early wickets.
- Structure: 1 WK – 3 BAT – 3 AR – 4 BOWL.
- WK: KL Rahul.
- BAT: V Kohli, D Mitchell, S Iyer.
- AR: R Jadeja, M Bracewell, N Reddy.
- BOWL: K Yadav (C), M Siraj (VC), A Singh, K Clarke.
- Logic: Everyone expects runs. If the pitch plays tricky or there is a collapse, this team wins big. Captaining Kuldeep Yadav is the ultimate differential move– if he spins a web and takes 4-5 wickets, you will skyrocket up the leaderboards.
Must-Picks vs. Avoids.
Must-Picks (Lock these in 90% of teams):
- KL Rahul: Form of his life + wicketkeeping duties.
- Ravindra Jadeja: Too much utility to ignore.
- Daryl Mitchell: The best Kiwi batter on display currently.
- Virat Kohli: You don’t drop Kohli in a decider.
Risky Avoids (Players you might consider dropping for credits):.
- Glenn Phillips: While explosive, he bats too low. Unless top order collapses, he might not face enough balls to justify his credits.
- Rohit Sharma: Although he hasn’t been in great form, Rohit Sharma could emerge as a top performer in the final match of the series.
- Finger Spinners (excluding Jadeja/Bracewell): Pure finger spinners like Washington Sundar (if played) or Santner might struggle on the small ground without the batting backup that Jadeja/Bracewell offer.
Budget Picks (Credit Savers).
To fit in Kohli (9.0), Rahul (9.0), and Mitchell (9.0), you need cheap players who perform.
- Will Young (7.5 Cr): incredible value for an opener.
- Nitish Reddy (7.0 Cr): If he is in the XI, he is the best credit saver available.
- Harshit Rana (7.0 Cr): If India bowls first, he might bowl at the death, offering cheap wicket potential.
Final Fantasy Tips for the Decider.
- Toss Update is Critical: Wait for the toss. If India bowls first, stack your team with Indian death bowlers (Arshdeep/Siraj) and top 3 batsmen (Gill/Kohli). If India bats first, consider dropping one Indian opener for an extra middle-order batter.
- Monitor the Dew: If reports confirm heavy dew, the team batting second has a huge advantage. Adjust your Captaincy accordingly– Captain the chasers!
- Backup Teams: Never play with just one team in Grand Leagues. Create 5-6 variations using the strategies above (Batting heavy, Bowling heavy, NZ favor, India favor).
- Don’t ignore the Keeper: In high-scoring games, edges fly thick and fast. Wicket-keepers often end up with 3-4 catches, which is equal to 24-32 bonus points.
This guide provides the framework for success. The Holkar Stadium promises fireworks, and with the right combination of safe picks and smart differentials, you can turn this series decider into a personal victory. Good luck, and may your captain score big!
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Key Battles & Stats Analysis to Watch in the Decider.
Beyond the team scores and series result, cricket matches are often decided by individual duels between key players. In this high-stakes final, a few specific matchups could dictate the game’s flow. On a batting-friendly pitch like Holkar’s, winning these personal battles will be crucial for both India and New Zealand.
Shubman Gill vs. Michael Bracewell’s Spin
Shubman Gill, India’s captain, is a masterful player of pace but has occasionally shown vulnerability against spin early in his innings. New Zealand’s skipper, Michael Bracewell, will be keenly aware of this. Bracewell’s crafty off-spin and ability to vary his pace could be the perfect weapon to tie Gill down in the middle overs. If Bracewell can control the run rate and lure Gill into a false shot, it would be a massive breakthrough for the Kiwis. Conversely, if Gill asserts his dominance and attacks the spin, he could set a powerful tempo for India’s innings.
Virat Kohli vs. Kyle Jamieson’s Pace
This is a classic contest: a world-class batsman against a bowler with unique physical attributes. Virat Kohli is a master of dissecting pace attacks, but Kyle Jamieson presents a different challenge. At 6′ 8″, Jamieson extracts steep bounce from even the flattest of pitches, a trait that can trouble the best batsmen. His ability to hit an uncomfortable length could disrupt Kohli’s rhythm. This battle in the powerplay and middle overs will be fascinating. If Kohli can negate Jamieson’s bounce and find his timing, a big score is on the cards. If Jamieson gets the better of him, it could expose India’s middle order early.
Milestone Watch: King Kohli on the Verge of History.
Adding another layer of excitement to this match is a significant personal milestone for Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro is on the cusp of reaching 14,000 runs in One Day Internationals. He is one of the fastest to every major run milestone in the format’s history, and achieving this feat in a series decider would make it even more special. This personal landmark will surely provide Kohli with extra motivation to deliver a match-winning performance.
India vs New Zealand Match Prediction: Who Will Win the IND vs NZ Decider?
As the series hangs in the balance, predicting the outcome of this final encounter is a tall order. New Zealand enters the match with significant momentum after their masterful chase in the second ODI. However, India’s formidable home record, combined with the sheer power of their batting lineup, gives them a slight edge.
Playing at a high-scoring venue like Holkar Stadium puts the spotlight firmly on the batsmen. India’s depth, featuring talents like Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and the in-form KL Rahul, seems better equipped to post or chase a mammoth total. While New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell is in scintillating form, India’s overall batting strength runs deeper.
The toss will be a crucial factor. The captain winning the toss will likely choose to bowl first to negate the impact of evening dew. We predict New Zealand will win the toss and put India in to bat. Expect India to leverage the flat conditions to post a formidable score in the range of 320-340.
Despite bowling second in dewy conditions, India’s potent attack and home-ground advantage should be enough to defend the total.
Our Prediction: India wins by 30-50 runs and clinches the series 2-1.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the IND vs NZ 3rd ODI
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the series-deciding match between India and New Zealand, Dream11 fantasy tips, and the venue conditions.
1. Who is the best Dream11 captain for the IND vs NZ 3rd ODI?
For small, safe leagues, KL Rahul is the best captaincy choice. He is in brilliant form after scoring a century in the last match and earns extra points as a wicketkeeper. For grand leagues, consider a differential pick like Shubman Gill, who is due for a big score on a pitch that suits his style.
2. Does Holkar Stadium favor batting or bowling?
Holkar Stadium in Indore is overwhelmingly a batting-friendly ground. The pitch is flat, and the boundaries are small, leading to very high scores. The average first innings score in ODIs here is around 300, so expect a run-fest.
3. What is a good Dream11 combination for the IND vs NZ final match?
A balanced combination for a small league would be 1 Wicketkeeper, 4 Batsmen, 2 All-rounders, and 4 Bowlers. Focus on loading your team with top-order batsmen from both sides like KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Daryl Mitchell, and Will Young.
4. Where can I watch the IND vs NZ 3rd ODI live?
You can watch the India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI live on the Star Sports Network on television. For live streaming, the match will be available on the Hotstar app and website.
5. Who is likely to win the 3rd ODI between India and New Zealand?
While New Zealand has momentum, India holds a slight edge as favorites to win. Their deep batting lineup and formidable home record make them tough to beat in a decider. We predict India will win the match and the series.
6. What is the role of dew at Holkar Stadium?
Dew is expected to be a significant factor in the second innings. It makes the ball wet and difficult for bowlers to grip, which gives the team batting second a considerable advantage in chasing the target. This is why the captain winning the toss will likely choose to bowl first.
7. Which bowlers should I pick for my Dream11 team?
On a batting pitch, prioritize wicket-taking bowlers over economical ones. Wrist-spinners like Kuldeep Yadav can be effective. Pacers who bowl at the death, such as Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj, are also good picks as they can get wickets when batsmen are looking to score quickly.
8. Is Virat Kohli a good pick for this match?
Absolutely. Virat Kohli thrives in high-pressure deciders and has an excellent record in run chases. On a flat pitch like Indore’s, he is a prime candidate for a big score and is a must-have in any fantasy team. He is also approaching a career milestone of 14,000 ODI runs.
9. Any budget-friendly players for Dream11?
Will Young (NZ) is a great value pick. He opened the batting and scored an impressive 87 in the last game. For India, all-rounder Nitish Reddy (if he plays) can be an excellent credit-saver, offering value with both bat and ball.
10. What is the predicted playing XI for India?
India is expected to make one change, bringing in pacer Arshdeep Singh for Prasidh Krishna to strengthen their death bowling. The rest of the lineup, including captain Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul, should remain the same.