Virat Kohli anchors chase to help India beat New Zealand in first ODI

Vadodara: Virat Kohli’s batting proved pivotal as Indian cricket team edged out New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling first One-Day International of the three-match series at the Kotambi International Cricket Stadium here on January 11, 2026. Chasing a competitive target of 301, India reached 306/6 with six balls to spare, with Kohli’s innings anchoring the chase.

A captain’s knock in a big chase

India were set a stiff total of 301 runs by New Zealand, who posted 300/8 thanks to contributions from the batting lineup. In reply, Kohli walked in after the early departure of Rohit Sharma and immediately took charge. His 93-run innings off 91 balls featured eight fours and a six, blending calm accumulation with controlled aggression under pressure.

Kohli put together a crucial 118-run partnership with Shubman Gill, who struck a valuable 56, stabilising the chase and keeping India firmly in control through the middle overs.

Navigating turning tides

When Kohli was dismissed in the 40th over, India’s momentum wavered as New Zealand struck back with quick wickets. However, Kohli’s groundwork had set the stage for the lower order to finish the job. KL Rahul and Harshit Rana provided calm finishing touches to guide India home, illustrating the depth and resilience of the batting lineup.

Beyond the runs — records and impact

Although Kohli fell just short of his 54th ODI century, his knock was rich with significance. In the process, he became the fastest player in history to reach 28,000 international runs, surpassing legends of the game in a testament to his enduring excellence.

This innings also marked another in a string of high-impact performances, reinforcing Kohli’s role as the linchpin of India’s chasing strategy. His ability to pace an innings — accelerating when needed and tempering the attack when required — remains one of the most valuable assets in India’s batting arsenal.

Setting the tone for the series

India’s victory in Vadodara not only gave them a 1–0 lead in the series but also underscored their strength in 300-plus-run chases, a hallmark of their ODI identity in recent years. Kohli’s innings was central to that narrative, showcasing experience, technique and game awareness in equal measure.

As the Indian team builds momentum for the rest of the series and beyond, Kohli’s performance will stand out as a defining moment at the start of the year — a blend of artistry and competitive resolve that continues to elevate India’s batting lineup.

Tags : Virat Kohli, Indian cricket team, Cricket, New Zealand, Vadodara