Just like that, we are into the final match of the ODI leg of the India vs New Zealand series, and the series decider will be played on a batting haven. With the series locked at 1–1, the two sides meet at the Holkar Cricket Stadium on Sunday, a ground that has historically produced mountains of runs and India victories. The hosts hold a perfect record here with seven wins from seven ODIs. But New Zealand know a thing or two about beating India in India. After their superb performance in the last game, the Kiwis know that if the toss goes in their way, they have a chance.
Indore has long been known as a batter’s dream. Virender Sehwag’s iconic 219 when India piled up 418 against the West Indies remains the most memorable match at the venue. Small boundaries, true bounce and fast outfield have made this one of the most high-scoring grounds in the country. The day-night factor and dew in the second innings have often tilted games towards chasing teams, something India will be wary of after recent experiences.
Holkar Stadium pitch report: Expect runs; bowlers need smart plans
The surface at Holkar is typically flat with an even pace and bounce, allowing batters to trust the carry through the line. Unlike venues where the ball grips or holds up, Indore offers a true pitch where timing is easier and mishits often travel. Square boundaries range between 60–65 metres, meaning no bowler is safe.
Pacers rarely get assistance off the deck, though the new ball can swing briefly under lights. Success here depends on variations, cutters and accurate lengths rather than outright pace. Spinners, on the other hand, can play a role if they attack the stumps and vary flight, but turn is usually minimal. Historically, matches at this venue have seen first-innings scores around 290, with the pitch becoming even better for batting as the evening progresses.
Temperatures are expected to hover in the late 20s with a cool evening, perfect for cricket. Dew could again become a major factor, making it difficult for bowlers to grip the ball in the second innings. Teams winning the toss are likely to prefer chasing, especially with such short boundaries on offer.
Pace vs Spin at Holkar Stadium (ODIs)
| Bowling | Innings | Wickets | Average | Economy | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pace | 52 | 55 | 48.36 | 6.58 | 44.0 |
| Spin | 34 | 44 | 32.54 | 5.66 | 34.5 |
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both enjoying excellent records here and New Zealand riding on Daryl Mitchell’s golden touch, another run-fest looks inevitable.
Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore ODI stats
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| First ODI Match | 15/04/2006 |
| Last ODI Match | 24/09/2023 |
| Matches Played | 7 |
| Matches Won by Home Side | 7 (100.00%) |
| Matches Won Batting First | 5 (71.43%) |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 2 (28.57%) |
| Highest Individual Innings | 219 Virender Sehwag (India) vs WI (December, 2011) |
| Best Bowling | 6/55 Sreesanth (India) vs England (April, 2006) |
| Highest Team Innings | 418/5 (India) vs WI (08/12/2011) |
| Lowest Team Innings | 217 (Australia) vs India (24/09/2023) |
| Highest Run Chase Achieved | 294/5 (India) vs Australia (24/09/2017) |
| Average Runs per Wicket | 37.34 |
| Average Score Batting First | 332 |
