Kohli's Masterclass Overshadowed by New Zealand's Series Win
Virat Kohli delivered another batting masterclass on Sunday, but his heroic effort could not prevent India from losing the ODI series decider against New Zealand. The visitors secured a 41-run victory in Indore, clinching the series 2-1 with a commanding performance.
India's Chase Falls Short Despite Kohli's Brilliance
New Zealand set a daunting target of 338 runs after winning the toss and batting first. India's chase got off to a disastrous start, crumbling to 71 for four early on. Virat Kohli then took center stage with a magnificent 124 runs from just 108 deliveries.
This was Kohli's record-extending 54th ODI century, showcasing his enduring class even in a losing cause. Despite fighting half-centuries from Nitish Kumar Reddy (53) and Harshit Rana (52), India eventually folded for 296 runs in 46 overs. The deficit proved too steep to overcome.
New Zealand's Batting Powerhouse
Earlier in the day, New Zealand's innings was powered by twin centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips. Mitchell smashed 137 runs while Phillips contributed 106, propelling the visitors to a formidable total of 337 for eight.
Zak Foulkes and Kristian Clarke then shared six wickets between them during India's reply, ensuring New Zealand maintained control throughout the chase. Their disciplined bowling attack contained India's batting lineup effectively.
Kohli Rewrites Record Books
While the series ended in disappointment for India, Virat Kohli achieved multiple personal milestones that highlighted his legendary status. His century in Indore marked his seventh ODI hundred against New Zealand, surpassing legends like Ricky Ponting and Virender Sehwag who had six each.
This was Kohli's 10th international century against New Zealand across all formats, the most by any batter against the Kiwis. He now stands alone at the top of this prestigious list.
Historic Achievements and Records
Kohli's knock took him to 59 List-A centuries, placing him just one shy of Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of 60. At home, he registered his 41st international hundred on Indian soil, moving closer to Tendulkar's record of 42.
The batting maestro also surpassed Ricky Ponting to become the highest run-scorer at No.3 position in ODI cricket, amassing 12,676 runs from that batting slot. Another significant achievement saw Kohli score centuries at 35 different ODI venues, overtaking Tendulkar's record of 34.
Mixed Records and Consistent Performance
Unfortunately, Kohli's century also placed him on an unwanted list - this was his ninth ODI hundred in a losing cause, equalling Brendon Taylor's tally. Only Tendulkar (14) and Chris Gayle (11) have more centuries in defeats.
Despite this, Kohli's dominance against multiple opponents remains staggering. He now has seven or more centuries against five different teams, showcasing his versatility across conditions and bowling attacks.
Pressure Performer Statistics
Kohli's record in high-pressure scenarios further cements his reputation as a clutch performer. In bilateral ODI series deciders, he has scored 784 runs at an impressive average of 52.26. His performance in 300-plus chases is even more remarkable, with 2,131 runs including 10 centuries at an average of 62.67.
The statistics reveal a pattern of excellence when the stakes are highest. Kohli consistently delivers when his team needs him most, though on this occasion, his individual brilliance could not secure victory for India.
New Zealand's comprehensive win gives them valuable momentum ahead of future engagements, while India will reflect on what might have been despite Kohli's record-breaking performance.
