Sports Desk: India suffered a heavy 244-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday. Chasing a target of 334, the visitors were bowled out for just 89 in 26.4 overs, handing the hosts a commanding victory.
New Zealand had posted 333 runs in their allotted 50 overs, with opener Will Young leading the innings with a superb 125 off 108 balls. His century helped the hosts build a formidable total and put India under pressure before the chase even began.
India’s reply unravelled quickly as Matt Henry tore through the batting order. The Indian team struggled against the movement and accuracy of the New Zealand pacers, losing wickets at regular intervals and failing to build meaningful partnerships.
Stand-in captain Shreyas Iyer acknowledged the difference in pitch conditions between the two innings after the defeat. He also credited Henry for bowling in the right areas from the beginning of India’s innings.
The result keeps New Zealand in contention in the five-match ODI series. India had won the first two matches, while the third game was abandoned due to rain. New Zealand’s victory in the fourth ODI means the series stands at 2-1, with the fifth and final match still to come.
