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New Zealand and India will begin their five-match ODI series at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4, 2026. The opening match promises an exciting contest, with India looking to make a strong start and New Zealand aiming to use home conditions to their advantage.
Eden Park has hosted several memorable encounters between the two sides. However, India’s historical record at the venue suggests that the visitors will need to overcome a challenging ground as they begin their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Eden Park is one of New Zealand’s most prominent sporting venues and has a long history of hosting international cricket. The ground is known for its relatively compact boundaries, which can reward aggressive batters, although the pitch and prevailing conditions can also assist seam bowlers.
India have played 11 ODIs at Eden Park, winning four, losing six and tying one. The numbers highlight New Zealand’s advantage at the venue, although India have also produced some notable performances there.
India’s last ODI at Eden Park against New Zealand came in November 2022, when the hosts won by seven wickets. The result will provide additional motivation for the visitors as they return to Auckland for the 2026 series opener.
India’s highest ODI total at the ground is 314/9, recorded in January 2014. Their lowest total was 108, registered in December 2002. These contrasting results underline how challenging conditions at the venue can be for visiting teams.
Virender Sehwag holds the record for India’s highest individual ODI score at Eden Park. He scored 112 runs against New Zealand in January 2003, producing an important innings in a successful run chase.
Sehwag’s ability to attack from the beginning made him particularly dangerous in conditions where bowlers could not afford to miss their lengths. His innings remains a notable part of India’s ODI history at the Auckland venue.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be among the Indian batters attracting attention during the series opener.
Rohit has scored 98 runs in three ODI appearances at Eden Park, averaging 49.00. His highest score at the ground is 43 not out.
Kohli, meanwhile, has accumulated 59 runs in three ODI innings at the venue, with a highest score of 38. Although his Auckland numbers are relatively modest, his wider ODI record in New Zealand has been considerably stronger.
Both batters will be eager to make an impact if they feature in the opening match, particularly with India’s experienced batting core expected to play an important role in the series.