New Zealand match-winner Daryl Mitchell has revealed that going after Kuldeep Yadav from the very first ball was a calculated and deliberate tactic, one that played a decisive role in the visitors’ historic ODI series win in India. Speaking after New Zealand’s memorable triumph in the Indore series decider, Mitchell explained why neutralising India’s premier wrist-spinner was central to their batting plans.

Kuldeep has long been regarded as the heartbeat of India’s ODI bowling attack, capable of controlling tempo and triggering collapses once he finds his rhythm. Daryl Mitchell acknowledged the threat and made it clear that allowing the left-arm spinner to settle was never an option. The intent was evident immediately when Mitchell charged down the track in the 17th over and launched Kuldeep for a towering straight six off his very first delivery.

From that moment, the pressure visibly shifted. Kuldeep struggled to regain confidence as Daryl Mitchell and, later, Glenn Phillips continued to attack. The assault intensified in the 41st over, with both batters targeting the spinner straight down the ground. On a small Indore surface, there was little margin for error, and Kuldeep eventually returned figures of 1 for 48 from six overs—numbers that reflected how effectively New Zealand disrupted India’s plans.

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It wasn’t an isolated incident. In the previous ODI in Rajkot, Kuldeep had endured a similar outing, conceding 82 runs from his full quota as Mitchell smashed an unbeaten 131 and Will Young added 85. Although Kuldeep dismissed Young, the damage was already done, with India failing to defend 284. For the second game running, New Zealand’s proactive approach ensured the spinner never dictated terms.

Despite the aggressive tactics, Daryl Mitchell was quick to stress his respect for Kuldeep’s ability. “Kuldeep is world-class. There’s a reason we try to put him under pressure. When he bowls well, he sets up the whole attack,” Mitchell said, adding that the spinner remains a major asset for India going forward.

Mitchell also weighed in on India’s decision to bowl first in Indore, calling it a logical move given the possibility of dew. He admitted visiting teams often rely on collective judgement when conditions are unfamiliar, something New Zealand managed well throughout the series.

A key pillar of New Zealand’s innings was Mitchell’s partnership with Glenn Phillips, who struck a scintillating 106 after early wickets fell. Daryl Mitchell highlighted how their contrasting styles and sharp running allowed them to rebuild and then dominate. “The focus was on extending the partnership and putting the pressure back on them,” he said.

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Mitchell credited his IPL experience, particularly stints in Chennai and Rajasthan, for helping him thrive in Indian conditions. Above all, he took pride in New Zealand’s composure during the tense chase, even as Virat Kohli threatened to pull India back into the contest.

Calling the decider a fitting contest, Daryl Mitchell said the series win carried deep meaning. New Zealand’s first-ever bilateral ODI series victory in India, he noted, was the product of belief, calm execution, and a group that will return home with “big smiles and lasting memories.”