It was another evening where Virat Kohli quietly reminded everyone why he continues to be the backbone of Indian cricket. In the first ODI against New Zealand at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara on Sunday, Kohli played a calm and decisive knock to guide India to a four-wicket win, giving the hosts a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.
Chasing the target, Virat Kohli scored a composed 93 off 91 balls, anchoring the innings when it mattered most. His effort earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award yet again, extending his own record to 45 such honours in international cricket. When asked after the game if he keeps track of these awards or he has any idea how many POTM awards he has won in his career, Kohli brushed it off with a smile, saying he doesn’t count them and prefers sending them home, where his mother likes to preserve them.
Looking back on his career, Virat Kohli reflected on how far he has come. He spoke about believing in his abilities from the start, while also acknowledging the hard work and patience it took to reach this level. More than achievements or numbers, he stressed gratitude for opportunities, support and the chance to live a life he once only dreamed about. According to him, experience now helps him stay focused on what the team needs rather than personal milestones.
Virat Kohli explained that during the chase, his only aim was to steady the innings and keep India in control. Batting at number three, he trusts his instincts to put pressure back on the opposition, especially after an early wicket. Rather than over-thinking, he focuses on reading the situation and responding accordingly. He admitted that every game brings different challenges and emotions but the priority remains the same — doing what is the best for the team.
Beyond runs and records, Virat Kohli highlighted what truly motivates him — the ability to bring joy to people. Knowing that his performances can put smiles on faces around the world gives him deep satisfaction and keeps his love for the game alive.
The match also marked another historic milestone. Virat Kohli completed 28,000 international runs in just 624 innings, faster than legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara. With 28,017 runs, he also moved past Kumar Sangakkara to become the second highest run-scorer in international cricket, trailing only behind Sachin Tendulkar. Though he missed out on a century by seven runs, the night belonged to Kohli in every other way.
Congratulations Virat Kohli!
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