New Zealand’s Historic Test Triumph in India: Revisiting the 2024 Whitewash
PARIS, 28 January 2026 – In the annals of Test cricket, few achievements resonate as profoundly as winning a series on Indian soil. Over a year ago, in October and November 2024, the New Zealand cricket team, led by Tom Latham, authored one of the most remarkable chapters in the sport’s history by not only defeating India but securing a comprehensive 3-0 clean sweep. This series victory broke a 36-year drought for New Zealand in India and marked India’s first-ever 3-0 whitewash at home.
The Historic Triumph
The three-Test series, part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship, was a masterclass in adaptability and collective performance from the visiting side. Prior to the tour, New Zealand had won only two Test matches in India, with their last victory dating back to 1988-89. Underdog status was cast aside as the Kiwis dominated from the first Test in Bengaluru, displaying superior skill in spin-friendly conditions traditionally dominated by the hosts. The victory ended India’s 12-year unbeaten streak in home Test series, a record dating back to England’s win in 2012.
Series Summary: A 3-0 Rout
| Test Match | Venue & Date | Result | Key Performer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | Bengaluru, 16-20 October 2024 | New Zealand won by 8 wickets | Rachin Ravindra (134 & 39) |
| 2nd Test | Pune, 24-26 October 2024 | New Zealand won by 113 runs | Mitchell Santner (13 wkts in match) |
| 3rd Test | Mumbai, 1-3 November 2024 | New Zealand won by 25 runs | Ajaz Patel (11 wkts in match) |
Key Performers and Statistics
The series was defined by standout contributions across the New Zealand lineup. Will Young was named Player of the Series for his consistent batting, amassing 244 runs. The spin trio of Ajaz Patel (15 wickets), Mitchell Santner (13 wickets in 2 Tests), and the part-time offerings of Glenn Phillips outbowled their celebrated Indian counterparts. For India, Rishabh Pant (261 runs) and Ravindra Jadeja (16 wickets) fought hard, but the batting lineup faltered under relentless pressure, notably being bowled out for 46 in the first innings of the opening Test.
The Aftermath & Current Context
The seismic victory in 2024 has reshaped the narrative around New Zealand cricket in subcontinental conditions. The teams reconvened in India in January 2026 for a white-ball tour comprising three ODIs and five T20Is. In a continuation of their newfound prowess, New Zealand secured another historic first: a 2-1 victory in the ODI series, their maiden bilateral ODI series win on Indian soil. Daryl Mitchell was instrumental, scoring 352 runs including two centuries, and has since risen to the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings. The focus now shifts to the T20I series as both teams prepare for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last time India lost a Test series at home before this?
India’s last defeat in a home Test series was against England in 2012. New Zealand’s victory in 2024 ended a 12-year unbeaten streak for India in home conditions.
Who was the Player of the Series in the 2024 Tests?
New Zealand batsman Will Young was awarded the Player of the Series for scoring 244 runs at an average of 48.80 across the three matches.
Has New Zealand won an ODI series in India before?
Yes, following their Test success, New Zealand won their first-ever bilateral ODI series in India in January 2026, defeating the hosts 2-1.