India suffered a humiliating 244-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on Friday. A sensational six-wicket haul from Matt Henry and a brilliant century from Will Young powered the hosts to a commanding victory. India were bowled out for just 89 runs while chasing 334, registering their second-biggest defeat in ODI cricket history by runs.
Will Young Leads New Zealand’s Batting Charge
After winning the toss, India captain Shreyas Iyer elected to bowl first. However, New Zealand made full use of the opportunity, posting an imposing 333 runs in 50 overs.
Will Young was the standout performer, smashing 125 runs off 108 deliveries, including 14 boundaries and four sixes. He built an important opening partnership with Tim Seifert, who contributed 58 runs off 48 balls.
Finn Allen added 41 runs, while captain Mitchell Santner scored 24. Kyle Jamieson remained unbeaten on 19, helping New Zealand cross the 330-run mark.
For India, Axar Patel, Gurnoor Brar and Auqib Nabi picked up two wickets each.
Matt Henry Creates History With Three First-Over Wickets
India’s chase of 334 began with a nightmare. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry dismissed Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer in the very first over. All three experienced batters departed without scoring.
Rohit was dismissed on the first ball, Kohli was bowled for a four-ball duck, while Iyer was trapped LBW. Ruturaj Gaikwad also departed for just five runs, leaving India struggling at 9/4.
India Suffer Second-Biggest ODI Defeat
Ishan Kishan tried to stabilise the innings with 27 runs, but New Zealand’s bowling attack proved too strong. Matt Henry finished with outstanding figures of 6 wickets for 27 runs in 9.4 overs.
India were eventually bowled out for 89 in 26.4 overs, losing by 244 runs. Henry was named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance.
The victory keeps New Zealand alive in the five-match ODI series, with India still leading 2-1.