NZ probable playing XI for 3rd ODI [Source: @BLACKCAPS/X]The New Zealand ODI squad gave India a tough time in the second match at the Rajkot Stadium. After India registered a comprehensive win in the first ODI at Vadodara, the New Zealand side remained vigilant in the next encounter on January 14, where they won the match by seven wickets. The Michael Bracewell-led team saw Daryl Mitchell put on a stellar show with a century that even overshadowed KL Rahul’s hundred for India. India managed a modest total of 284 runs, largely due to KL Rahul’s mammoth innings. While Mitchell led the charge with a commanding 131, Will Young was equally impressive with a fluent 87 off 98 balls. New Zealand did face an early scare within the first 13 overs, as they were reduced to 46/2 after losing Henry Nicholls and Devon Conway. Nevertheless, Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips took the game away from India and sealed the chase. Credit must also go to the New Zealand bowlers, who managed to restrict India on home soil, with Kristian Clarke leading the attack by picking up three wickets. With their playing XI settled in the second ODI and no fresh injury concerns or withdrawals, let us take a look at the probable and best playing eleven New Zealand can field for the third ODI against India on January 18 in Indore. New Zealand likely Playing XI vs India - 3rd ODI Openers and Top Order - Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls and Will Young Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls are expected to open for New Zealand in the third ODI. Conway has been in good form overall, despite a modest return in his previous outing. In the first ODI, he scored a fluent 56 off 67 deliveries before being dismissed for just 16 runs in the second match. However, given his experience, the 34-year-old is expected to provide a solid foundation alongside Henry Nicholls. Nicholls has also been consistent in the series, averaging 36 after scoring 62 off 69 balls in the first ODI against India. Batting at number three, Will Young is likely to continue in his role after a prolific outing in the second ODI. He looked comfortable and composed, scoring a crucial 87 off 98 deliveries to steady the innings after New Zealand were unsettled by early wickets. Middle Order and All-Rounders - Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay and Michael Bracewell Daryl Mitchell, who produced a fine performance in the last ODI with a brilliant 131 off 117 balls, will act as a solid anchor if New Zealand face any early trouble. Averaging an extraordinary 250 in the India series so far, Mitchell is likely to put up another strong show in Indore. Following Mitchell, Glenn Phillips is best suited to bat at number four. The aggressive batter is well equipped to handle slow or slightly seaming conditions during the middle overs. His attacking ability was evident in the previous match, where he scored a quick 32 off 25 balls, even under pressure. Mitchell Hay, the wicketkeeper-batter, is expected to come in at number six. Although he managed only 18 runs in the first ODI, he showed glimpses of his ability. He did little wrong and is likely to be given another opportunity in the third ODI. All-rounder Michael Bracewell will add balance to the side at number seven. As captain, he can adjust his approach based on the situation. His past record against the West Indies, where he averages 43 in the series, suggests he has the ability to deliver impactful performances, and he will look to replicate that form against India in the upcoming clash. Bowlers - Zak Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson and Jayden Lennox/Adithya Ashok With New Zealand’s bowling line-up largely settled, they are unlikely to make many changes to their frontline pace attack led by Kyle Jamieson, Kristian Clarke and Zak Foulkes. All three bowlers have been effective with the ball, either by picking up wickets or by keeping the run rate under control. Hence, the team cannot go wrong by continuing with this pace trio as part of their four-pronged attack. However, the choice of frontline spinner remains a point of discussion between Jayden Lennox and Adithya Ashok. Neither spinner had an impressive outing in their respective ODIs, but Lennox could be given the nod over Ashok due to his greater experience and stronger wicket-taking ability with the ball. NZ likely Playing XI vs IND - 3rd ODI 2026 - Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell, Zak Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Jayden Lennox
