Vadodara: Virat Kohli’s arrival in Vadodara on January 7 triggered scenes of unbridled fan hysteria, underlining the former India captain’s undiminished star power ahead of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The atmosphere at the airport turned electric the moment Kohli came into view, with hundreds of supporters surging forward, chanting his name and scrambling for selfies and videos.
The overwhelming crowd presence created near-chaotic scenes, forcing security personnel to swiftly tighten their cordon so that Kohli could safely make his way through the mass of fans and into his waiting vehicle. The episode once again highlighted Kohli’s stature as one of India’s biggest sporting icons, capable of drawing massive crowds wherever he goes.
Even in a city steeped in cricketing history like Vadodara, the scale and intensity of the reception stood out, reaffirming the enduring power of the “Kohli brand.” More than a decade into his international career, the batting superstar continues to command unmatched adulation from fans across the country.
As he begins the 2026 international season, Kohli has narrowed his focus exclusively to the ODI format. Having retired from T20 internationals and stepped away from Test cricket in May 2025, the 35-year-old is now fully committed to 50-over cricket, with the 2027 World Cup firmly in his sights. He arrives in Vadodara carrying strong momentum from the latter part of last year, particularly in home conditions where he remains a formidable presence.
The opening ODI against New Zealand also carries a nostalgic touch for Kohli. It marks his return to Vadodara for an international match after more than 15 years. His last ODI appearance at the venue came in 2010 against the same opponents, when he played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 105 while guiding India to a successful chase—an innings that played a key role in shaping his early international reputation.
Kohli’s current form suggests there has been no dip in intensity or hunger. He was the standout performer in India’s recent ODI series against South Africa, piling up 302 runs in three innings to claim the Player of the Series award. His rich vein of form continued on the domestic circuit as well, where he represented Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last month, scoring 131 and 77 to reaffirm his dominance.
The numbers further underline Kohli’s threat to New Zealand. In 33 ODIs against the Black Caps, he has scored 1,657 runs at an impressive average of 55.23, striking at 95.50. His record includes six centuries and nine half-centuries, making him one of the most consistent performers against the visitors.
India head into the series with added confidence, bolstered by the return of captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, both of whom missed the South Africa tour due to injury. Their availability strengthens an already formidable batting lineup.
At the heart of it all remains Kohli, the backbone of India’s ODI batting for over a decade. With 14,557 runs from 308 ODIs at an average of 58.46 and a strike rate of 93.65, along with 53 centuries and 76 fifties, his legacy in the 50-over format continues to grow—matched only by the passion he inspires among fans wherever he goes.
