Hamilton, November 10, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Persistent rain forced the abandonment of the third ODI between India and New Zealand at Seddon Park on Tuesday, with not a single ball bowled despite a prolonged wait for the weather to clear.
India continue to lead the five-match series 2-0, with the remaining two matches scheduled for Friday and Sunday. The visitors have already secured at least a series draw and cannot lose the contest.
The match had been under threat after heavy rainfall in Hamilton over the preceding 12 hours. Although the showers eased briefly and ground staff worked to prepare the playing area, further rain forced the covers back onto the pitch and delayed proceedings.
The toss eventually took place after a two-hour delay caused by rain and a wet outfield. India, who had elected to bowl in both previous matches, opted to field again. However, the covers were brought back on shortly afterwards as the weather deteriorated.
The cut-off time for a 20-over contest was 12:32 pm IST. With rain continuing and the ground requiring another 30 to 45 minutes of preparation even after a possible break in the showers, officials were left with no option but to call off the match.
Both earlier ODIs had also been affected by rain. India won the opening match in Auckland by five wickets while chasing a revised DLS target of 143 in 22.2 overs. In the second ODI in Wellington, the visitors were declared winners under the DLS method after rain ended the contest with India at 113/7 while chasing 135, four runs ahead of the par score.
India will head into the final two matches with a changed-looking squad. Shreyas Iyer is set to take over the captaincy from Shubman Gill, who will turn his attention to the upcoming two-match Test series alongside other red-ball players.
The fourth ODI will be played at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday.
FOLLOW NOW
