Mount Maunganui, November 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India captain Shreyas Iyer described the team’s twin white-ball series victories in New Zealand as a major achievement, praising the players’ resilience and the bowling unit after India clinched the ODI series 3-1 with a 22-run win in the fifth match at Bay Oval on Sunday.
India, who had earlier won the T20I series, successfully defended a modest total of 209 to bowl New Zealand out for 187. Iyer said the team had faced changing weather, challenging conditions and several other hurdles during the tour, making the two series victories particularly satisfying.
“Ecstatic” was how the India skipper summed up the team’s achievement, adding that the players had maintained their belief even when the batting side failed to post a big total in the series decider.
Iyer identified the bowlers as the key contributors, noting that conditions throughout the ODI series were not particularly favourable to batters. He praised the pace attack for stepping up under pressure and delivering when the team needed them most.
The captain, leading India in the format for only the second time, also acknowledged the challenges created by squad changes due to injuries and players preparing for the Test series. However, he said the team refused to make excuses and focused on adapting to conditions and meeting expectations.
Iyer thanked Indian supporters who turned out in large numbers during the tour, saying their encouragement remained strong regardless of the results. He also welcomed the growing popularity of the sport and the support extended to both teams.
Reflecting on India’s relationship with New Zealand, Iyer said the two sides shared a friendly bond away from the field but competed fiercely during matches.
“Off the field we should be friendly, but on the field it’s like a war,” he said.
India’s 22-run victory in the fifth ODI sealed a 3-1 series triumph, completing a successful white-ball campaign in New Zealand.
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