Virat Kohli Gears Up for ODI Series Against New Zealand in Vadodara
Kohli Returns to Action Ahead of ODI Series
In Vadodara, Gujarat, Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has commenced his practice sessions in preparation for the upcoming first ODI against New Zealand, scheduled for Sunday.
This three-match ODI series will see Kohli rejoining the Indian squad. Having transitioned to an exclusive ODI player, he recently earned the 'Player of the Series' accolade against South Africa in December, amassing 302 runs across three matches with an impressive average of 151.00, including two centuries and a fifty.
Kohli also participated in two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Delhi in late December, marking his return to the tournament after a 15-year hiatus. He scored 131 runs against Andhra Pradesh and followed it up with 77 runs against Gujarat, showcasing his classic strokeplay reminiscent of his prime.
On Instagram, Kohli shared glimpses from his practice session in Vadodara, featuring teammates KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Harshit Rana.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DTQfTTfkni5/?hl=en&img_index=1
Currently, Kohli is enjoying a remarkable run in limited-overs cricket, boasting an average of 146 over his last six matches, which includes three centuries and fifties, following a challenging start to his ODI comeback in October with two consecutive ducks in Australia.
He aims to maintain this momentum against New Zealand. In 2025, Kohli emerged as India's top ODI run-scorer, accumulating 651 runs in 13 innings at an average of 65.10, featuring three centuries and four fifties, with a highest score of 135 and a strike rate exceeding 96.
Against New Zealand in ODIs, Kohli has scored 1,657 runs in 33 innings, averaging 55.23, with six centuries and nine fifties, and a best score of 154*. He is just 25 runs shy of becoming the third player to reach 28,000 international runs, currently sitting at 27,975 runs with an average of 52.58 across 556 matches and 623 innings, including 84 centuries and a top score of 254*. He is on the verge of joining the ranks of Indian legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara.