Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir paid a spiritual visit to the iconic Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain ahead of the high-stakes ODI series decider against New Zealand. With the Men in Blue camped in Madhya Pradesh for the final match of the three-game series, Gambhir sought the blessings of Lord Shiva in a bid to reset the mindset after a disappointing outing in Rajkot.
India are coming off a seven-wicket defeat at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, a result that allowed New Zealand to level the ODI series 1-1. Despite a commanding effort from KL Rahul with the bat, India failed to post a competitive total, which the Blackcaps chased down comfortably. The loss not only dented India’s momentum but also set up a tense decider in Indore.
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Amid preparations for the must-win clash, Gambhir visited one of India’s most revered shrines and took part in the famed bhasma aarti at the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The former India opener was seen embracing the spiritual atmosphere inside the sanctum sanctorum, reflecting a calm and composed approach ahead of a crucial contest.
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The ODI series began on a positive note for India in Vadodara, where a classic Virat Kohli innings laid the foundation for a successful chase. Support from KL Rahul and Harshit Rana ensured India crossed the line and took an early 1-0 lead. However, New Zealand responded strongly in Rajkot with a clinical all-round performance, swinging the momentum firmly back in their favour.
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With the series now evenly poised, both teams will be eager to make a final statement. India will be keen to regroup, address their batting concerns, and deliver a complete performance, while the Blackcaps will look to carry forward their confidence and spoil the hosts’ plans.
The series decider between India and New Zealand will be played on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, promising a thrilling finish to the ODI contest.
