India recovered from a poor start to beat New Zealand by 35 runs in their final one-day international in Wellington and wrap up a 4-1 series win.

Ambati Rayudu struck a superb, under-pressure 90 to rescue his side who had slumped to 18 for four during a torrid opening spell.

Helped by 45 from both Vijay Shankar and Hardik Pandya, the tourists went on to register 252 all out in difficult, damp conditions.

In response, the Kiwis lost opener Henry Nicholls early but strong resistance from James Neesham gave them some hope of ending the series on a high.

New Zealand’s hopes faded when Neesham was needlessly run out for 44, leaving India, for whom Yuzvendra Chahal once again starred with three wickets, to coast to another victory.