Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 10: The third ODI between India and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain at Seddon Park on Tuesday, leaving India with an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

The washout means India cannot lose the series, while New Zealand must win the remaining two matches to draw the contest. The fourth ODI is scheduled to be played at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday, November 13.

New Zealand's six-year unbeaten record in bilateral ODI series at home will also be at stake. Since 2019, the Black Caps have won 11 home bilateral ODI series. Their last series defeat at home came against India in 2019.

Meanwhile, India will undergo a major leadership change for the final two matches, with regular captain Shubman Gill and wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul rested.

Both players are being rested ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, beginning November 19. The series will be crucial for India's prospects in the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.

India's T20I captain Shreyas Iyer will lead the side in the remaining ODIs, with Ishan Kishan appointed as his deputy. Kishan, who has not featured in the ongoing ODI series, is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties in Rahul's absence.

Wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra has received his maiden ODI call-up, while Yash Thakur and Tilak Varma have also been added to the squad for the final two matches.

India will also need to identify a new opening partner for Rohit Sharma following Gill's absence. Ruturaj Gaikwad is likely to open alongside Rohit, while Ishan Kishan is expected to slot into the middle order in place of Rahul.

With favourable weather forecasts for the remaining fixtures, both teams will hope for uninterrupted play as the series heads towards its conclusion.