India again fell just short in a chase as New Zealand moved 2-0 ahead in the one-day international series.
In claiming a victory at Hamilton that saw Australia rise to the summit of the world rankings at India’s expense, the Black Caps moved into a dominant position in the five-match series.
Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor's half-centuries laid the platform for more lusty hitting from emerging star Corey Anderson, whose 44 spanned 17 balls and featured five sixes, ultimately helping New Zealand to 271 for seven after 42 overs by the time rain halted proceedings.
Duckworth/Lewis calculations left India requiring 293 in 41.3 overs but, despite 78 from Virat Kohli – who struck 123 as India were defeated by 24 runs in the opening encounter – and Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s 56, they were 15 runs shy.
Things did not immediately go to plan for the home side as Mohammed Shami got rid of Jesse Ryder cheaply.
However, Martin Guptill, who hit 44, and Williamson rebuilt expertly thereafter, putting on 89 to leave New Zealand in a strong position.
Taylor backed up those efforts with 57, combining well with Williamson – who ultimately fell for 77 – before Anderson’s fireworks hurt India.
The tourists were always behind the eight-ball in their pursuit, Tim Southee grabbing the quick scalps of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma.
All of Kohli, Dhoni, Ajinkya Rahane and Suresh Raina got in, yet a failure for anyone to make a huge score proved detrimental as Southee ended with four wickets and Anderson three.