MUMBAI, India — The Indian men’s ODI cricket team came under intense criticism on social media on Sunday after suffering a 2-1 series defeat to a depleted New Zealand side, marking India’s first home ODI series loss to the Black Caps in 37 years.
India lost the series-deciding third and final ODI by 41 runs at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, allowing New Zealand to secure a historic series win on Indian soil. The defeat, coupled with New Zealand’s 3-0 Test series whitewash of India last year, has raised concerns about the form and direction of the 2023 ODI World Cup finalists just over a year ahead of the 2027 50-over World Cup.
Virat Kohli scored a fighting 124, while Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy contributed half-centuries, but their efforts were not enough as India failed to chase a daunting target of 338 and fell short by 41 runs.
“New Zealand thrashes India in the third and final ODI by 41 runs to seal the 3-match ODI series 2-1. Humiliation for India in their backyard,” one user wrote on X shortly after the match concluded.
Fans also directed their anger toward head coach Gautam Gambhir, who has been under scrutiny following a string of disappointing results and criticism over his handling of former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
“A young C Team of New Zealand handed over the ODI series defeat to the A Team of India. This is possible only in the Gautam Gambhir era,” another post read.
Former India opener Wasim Jaffer, however, praised the new-look New Zealand side for its resilience and execution in the series comeback.
“Phenomenal effort from NZ! Young team, 0-1 behind in the series, but their plans, execution, fielding, and the ability to stay in the game even when they were behind stood out. What a series Daryl Mitchell has had! New Zealand once again proved to be India’s bogey team. #INDvNZ,” Jaffer said in a post on X.
Several Indian players, apart from Kohli, were also targeted for their performances, with spinner Kuldeep Yadav drawing particular criticism after an underwhelming series.
“On pitches where the debutant Lennox bowled with such immaculate control and accuracy, what was the reason behind Kuldeep’s below-par series. I can see the revs on the ball, and it is not the same as the last series !! #INDvsNZ #KuldeepYadav,” a fan wrote.
Supporters also mocked the team management’s insistence that the squad was progressing well despite inconsistent results. Captain Shubman Gill’s recent ODI form has come under scrutiny, with comparisons being made to Sanju Samson’s performances in domestic 50-over cricket. The selectors, too, have faced criticism for persisting with Gill ahead of Samson.
The series defeat has intensified debate around selection, leadership, and overall direction as India looks to regroup ahead of future international assignments. (Source: IANS)
