New Delhi: India secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand after the third match was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Tuesday.
With India already winning the opening two matches, the washout ensured that the visitors retained their series advantage, with New Zealand left with only two remaining opportunities to level the contest.
Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss for the third consecutive time and elected to bowl, hoping to continue his team’s winning momentum. India also retained the same playing XI that featured in the previous two matches.
However, the weather had other plans as persistent showers disrupted proceedings throughout the scheduled match time.
The ground staff initially prepared for a shortened 40-over contest, with covers being removed as conditions appeared to improve. However, rain returned before play could begin, forcing another delay.
With the weather showing little sign of improvement, the umpires eventually decided to abandon the match. The decision came with at least 70 minutes remaining before the local cut-off time of 7:50 pm for a 20-over-per-side contest.
The abandonment means India will head into the remaining two matches with a commanding 2-0 advantage and the series already secured.
The teams will now travel to Tauranga for the fourth and fifth ODIs, scheduled to be played on November 13 and 15 respectively.
India will look to finish the series strongly, while New Zealand will aim to bounce back and avoid a series defeat on home soil.
