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Indian batting stalwart Virat Kohli once again proved his unmatched composure under pressure as he guided India to a thrilling four-wicket win over New Zealand in the first ODI at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, on Sunday. Kohli’s masterful 93 off 91 balls earned him the Player of the Match award and handed India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Chasing a competitive target of 301, India leaned heavily on Kohli’s experience as wickets fell at regular intervals. Calm, calculated, and authoritative, the former captain paced the innings perfectly, reminding fans why he remains the backbone of India’s ODI batting lineup.
Virat Kohli anchors India’s chase with classic ODI masterclass
India’s pursuit of New Zealand’s 300 for 8 began on an uncertain note, but Kohli steadied the innings with trademark assurance. Mixing caution with controlled aggression, he struck eight fours and one six, expertly handling the Black Caps’ varied bowling attack.
Crucial partnerships defined the chase. Kohli added stability alongside Shubman Gill, who contributed a brisk 56, before adding 77-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who scored 49 off 47 balls.
New Zealand’s bowlers tested Kohli with movement and clever changes of pace, but the veteran batter’s shot selection and awareness neutralized the pressure, reaffirming his reputation as one of the finest chasers in the modern game.
Player of the Match award brings out Kohli’s humble side
While Kohli’s batting stole the show, it was his post-match comments that won hearts. Asked about his ever-growing collection of Player of the Match trophies – now numbering around 71 across formats – Kohli admitted he doesn’t keep track of them.
“I honestly don’t know how many I have,” he said with a smile, adding that officials could simply send the latest award to his mother in Gurgaon. The remark offered a rare glimpse into Kohli’s grounded nature and close family ties, even as his career continues to scale historic heights.
Where Virat Kohli’s awards really go?
Kohli’s light-hearted confession shed light on an interesting detail of his career: there is no personal trophy room at his residence. Instead, most of his individual honours reportedly find their way to his family home in Gurgaon, where they are carefully preserved.
“I send it to my mum in Gurgaon, she likes to keep them. If I look back at my whole journey then it is nothing short of a dream come true for me,” stated Kohli.
The India great now boasts over 71 international Player of the Match awards, including 45 in ODIs, 16 in T20Is, and 10 in Tests – second only to Sachin Tendulkar. Memorable performances include multiple match-winning efforts against Pakistan in ICC events and iconic chases such as his unbeaten 82 in the 2022 T20 World Cup.
