Game Time Correspondent
Mumbai: Virat Kohli once again put to rest any speculation around his ODI future with another commanding performance in India’s series opener against New Zealand on Sunday. The former India captain struck a composed 93 off 91 balls as India successfully chased down 301 to clinch a four-wicket victory and take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.
The knock marked Kohli’s seventh consecutive ODI score of fifty or more since his return to the format in October last year, underlining the remarkable consistency that has defined his recent run.
Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, offered insight into what is driving Kohli’s resurgence, suggesting the 37-year-old is playing with the freedom and joy of his early days.
“It looks like nothing is going on in his mind. You asked me what he has changed-he hasn’t changed anything; he is just not thinking about anything. He made a decision that he just wants to enjoy his cricket. It seems like he is playing with the attitude of batting in his childhood, combined with the experience of so many years,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin also turned his attention to vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, who made a return to international cricket after months out due to a spleen laceration. The right-handed batter played a vital role in the chase, scoring 49 off 47 balls and building a key partnership with Kohli.
Highlighting Iyer’s importance in the ODI setup, Ashwin praised his consistency in the format.
“We know that Shreyas has been Mr. Consistent for India in ODI cricket. His dismissal was very unlike Shreyas; he never leaves the game like this-he generally finishes it. But it is very understandable; he is making a comeback, and that was a good ball by Jamieson,” he added.
After the match, Iyer expressed his happiness at returning to the side and contributing to a winning cause.
“Great start to the series. Coming back after a while into the team, it feels great to be a part of this squad. More than that, it was a great feeling to share the dressing room with each and every one. I was missing it for quite a while, but I am happy to be back,” Iyer said.
