The DY Patil Stadium witnessed a cricketing masterclass on Monday night as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Women dismantled the UP Warriorz (UPW) in the fifth match of WPL 2026. In a clinical display of disciplined bowling followed by a ruthless batting assault, RCB chased down a target of 144 in just 12.1 overs, sending a clear message to the rest of the league. The victory, fuelled by an explosive partnership between Grace Harris and skipper Smriti Mandhana, saw the Bengaluru franchise leap to the top of the table.

Disciplined RCB bowling stifles UP Warriorz after mid-inning collapse

Winning the toss and electing to bowl, RCB’s attack justified the decision immediately. Lauren Bell set the tone early, removing Harleen Deol (11) in the fifth over. However, the real destruction occurred during a nightmare stretch for the Warriorz between the 7th and 9th overs. Shreyanka Patil turned the game on its head, dismissing the legendary Meg Lanning (14) and the dangerous Phoebe Litchfield (20) in quick succession.

The Warriorz’s middle order crumbled like a house of cards. Nadine de Klerk joined the party by removing Kiran Navgire and Shweta Sehrawat on consecutive deliveries, leaving UPW reeling at a disastrous 50/5 in 8.2 overs. For a moment, it looked like the match might end prematurely.

A recovery of sorts was staged by Deepti Sharma (45* off 35) and Deandra Dottin (40* off 37), who stitched together an unbeaten 93-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Despite their gritty efforts to drag the score to 143/5, the RCB bowlers remained economical. Patil finished with standout figures of 2/50, while Arundhati Reddy strangled the scoring rate with an economy of just 4.50.

Grace Harris and Smriti Mandhana decimate UP Warriorz as RCB Secure thumping 9-wicket win

If the first half was about RCB’s discipline, the second half was about pure, unadulterated power. Opening the batting, Grace Harris looked like a woman possessed. From the first ball of the chase, she dismantled the UPW bowling attack with surgical precision. Harris reached her half-century in just 22 balls, eventually finishing with a staggering 85 off 40 deliveries, decorated with 10 boundaries and 5 towering sixes.

At the other end, Smriti Mandhana played the perfect foil, punctuating the chase with her trademark elegant drives and lofted shots. The duo brought up the team’s 100 in just 7.5 overs, effectively ending the contest before the strategic timeout. Mandhana remained unbeaten on 47 off 32 balls, ensuring there were no late hiccups.

The only blemish for RCB was the late dismissal of Harris in the 12th over, but by then, the damage was irreversible. Richa Ghosh walked in to bat and RCB sealed the victory with 47 balls to spare. This 9-wicket win not only earns RCB two points but significantly boosts their Net Run Rate, establishing them as the team to beat in the 2026 season.

Also WATCH: Shreyanka Patil gives double blow to UP Warriorz, dismisses Meg Lanning and Phoebe Litchfield in a single over during WPL 2026

Here’s how fans reacted:

Player of the Match: Grace Harris#cricket #RCBvUPW #WPL2026 pic.twitter.com/MSpX8Jp1tM

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) January 12, 2026

🚨GRACE HARRIS WINS THE PLAYER OF THE MATCH AWARD 🚨

– Grace Harris smashes a breathtaking 85 off 40 balls,5 sixes & 10 fours, at a strike rate of over 212. Absolutely incredible and unreal performance! 👏🔥 #WPL26 pic.twitter.com/KXkVXQ49NK

— MD Raju 🇮🇳 (@MDRaju_Live) January 12, 2026

Standing Ovation for Grace Harris
She deserve it man!!
We won match so early because of her If she out early then we’ll won this match in 15 or 16 over #WPL26 #Tatawpl pic.twitter.com/w4wLD41Uoa

— ViratUniverse👑🚩 (@DipanshuV19) January 12, 2026

We have Grace Harris ♥️

Some people were literally crying for Perry

You need more such batters in T20 Cricket

Said this before and will keep saying You need T20 style player to get success in T20 format https://t.co/vbwK93PIgI pic.twitter.com/soglUXY59n

— CricShyr (@cricshyr) January 12, 2026

85 Runs || 40 Balls || 10 Fours || 05 Sixes || 212.5 Strike Rate ||

Grace Harris cooked for RCB in their second game with bang! ❤️🥵 pic.twitter.com/fepTQGaa2N

— Pratika’s Poetry (@RRoyal_Reaper) January 12, 2026

Standing ovation for Grace Harris 👏 pic.twitter.com/SKSXRnw9Ao

— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) January 12, 2026

🚨 Richa Ghosh hit the winning boundary but soon realized Smriti Mandhana was just three runs away from her fifty. Smriti laughed after seeing Richa’s reaction. 😂 pic.twitter.com/JrZxYkwfSG

— MuFFatLal Bohra (@arshdeep3444) January 12, 2026

– RCB beat MI by 4 wickets.
– RCB beat UP Warriorz by 9 wickets.

2 OUT OF 2 WINS FOR CAPTAIN SMRITI MANDHANA & CO..!!!! 🔥♥️

pic.twitter.com/VkDtLIWsfv

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) January 12, 2026

🚨 RCB Women demolish UP Warriorz by 9 wickets in 12.1 overs! Grace Harris 85, Smriti Mandhana 47. WPL2026 warning! 🔥💥 pic.twitter.com/WhaAd6wCdo

— Kanak Kumari (@KanakKu64995524) January 12, 2026

“I’m loving my time with RCB”
~ Grace Harris pic.twitter.com/S9B9YVdVKm

— 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐔 (@IAm_Diptanu) January 12, 2026

Also WATCH: Nandini Sharma takes a sensational hat-trick in WPL 2026

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

Legendary former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has shared his early predictions for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, naming four teams he believes have the strongest chance of making it to the semifinals. Akram’s picks have sparked discussion among fans and experts alike, especially due to the absence of traditionally strong sides such as England and Pakistan from his list.

Wasim Akram names top-4 teams for T20 World Cup 2026

India tipped to thrive in home conditions

As per NDTV, Akram feels that India will be among the frontrunners, largely because of the advantage of familiar conditions. The 2026 T20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, giving Indian players a clear understanding of pitches, weather, and playing patterns. According to Akram, India’s biggest strengths lie in their deep batting lineup and versatile spin attack, both of which are crucial in subcontinental conditions. He believes that if India manage their workload well and field a settled XI, they could dominate the tournament from the early stages.

Australia’s big-match temperament stands out

When discussing Australia, Akram highlighted their remarkable consistency in ICC tournaments. Australia’s history of delivering under pressure makes them a dangerous opponent in knockout competitions. Akram pointed out that Australian players are mentally strong, tactically disciplined, and rarely overwhelmed by high-stakes scenarios. This calm approach, combined with their power-packed batting and aggressive fast bowling options, makes them a near-automatic contender for the semifinals in his view.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma predicts the finalist of T20 World Cup 2026

South Africa’s balanced unit earns Akram’s trust

Akram also backed South Africa, noting their steady rise in white-ball cricket over the past few years. He praised their balanced squad, which blends experienced campaigners with exciting young talent. In particular, Akram believes South Africa’s pace attack could be a major weapon, capable of unsettling even the strongest batting lineups on any surface. If they maintain consistency and handle crunch moments better, he feels South Africa have a genuine chance to go deep into the tournament.

New Zealand labelled the silent performers

Completing Akram’s list are New Zealand, whom he described as ‘silent performers.’ Despite often flying under the radar, New Zealand have built a reputation for punching above their weight in global events. Akram admired their clarity in roles, sharp fielding, and ability to adapt quickly to different conditions. He believes these qualities make New Zealand a serious semifinal contender, even if they do not always attract the spotlight.

Group spotlight of Akram’s picks

Notably, India headlines Group A, where they are set to face arch-rivals Pakistan alongside the USA, Netherlands, and Namibia. Australia have been placed in Group B, competing against co-hosts Sri Lanka as well as Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. Meanwhile, South Africa and New Zealand have both been drawn into Group D, setting up a high-profile clash between them, with Afghanistan, the UAE, and Canada rounding out their pool.

Also READ: Jacques Kallis explains why South Africa have a real shot at winning T20 World Cup 2026

Vadodra witnessed a unique blend of international rivalry and franchise loyalty as the first ODI between India and New Zealand unfolded at the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) Stadium in Kotambi, on January 11, 2026. While the contest was a high-stakes series opener, a heart-warming moment involving Kiwi opener Devon Conway stole the spotlight, proving that some bonds transcend national boundaries.

Devon Conway reacts to thunderous ‘CSK, CSK’ chants at BCA Stadium

The atmosphere at the BCA Stadium reached a fever pitch during the first innings, but it wasn’t just for the home team. As Conway took his position near the boundary ropes, the Vadodara crowd erupted with deafening chants of “CSK, CSK!” The New Zealand veteran, who was a cornerstone of the Chennai Super Kings from 2022 to 2025, paused for a moment to acknowledge the affection. Despite being released ahead of the 2026 IPL mega auction and recently going unsold in the initial rounds, Conway’s legacy with the Yellow Army clearly remains intact.

Conway responded to the passionate fans with a warm thumbs-up, a gesture that quickly went viral across social media. During his tenure with CSK, Conway was more than just an overseas player; he was a big-match performer, most notably winning the Player of the Match award in the 2023 IPL Final. His IPL statistics, 1,080 runs in 29 matches at an average of 43.20 explain why Indian fans still view him through the lens of Chennai’s golden era. On the field, Conway showed no signs of distraction, anchoring the Kiwi innings with a solid 56 off 67 balls before eventually being cleaned up by a sharp delivery from Harshit Rana.

Here’s the video:

CONWAY💛CSK
Scene from today’s match at BCA Stadium, Vadodara@FarziCricketer @internetumpire @CricSuperFan @CricCrazyJohns @mufaddal_vohra @CSKFansOfficial https://t.co/hmKKnZsDCQ pic.twitter.com/nPlB0ELfZb

— Suresh Reddy (@sureshsr772) January 11, 2026

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Virat Kohli reveals where does he keeps his Player of the Match awards

India overcomes late drama to secure a thrilling win against New Zealand in the opener

On the scoreboard, the match lived up to the hype of a 300-plus thriller. New Zealand posted a competitive 300/8, thanks to a formidable 117-run opening stand between Conway and Henry Nicholls (62), followed by a late-inning assault from Daryl Mitchell (84). India’s chase, however, was a masterclass in calculated aggression, spearheaded once again by the legendary Virat Kohli.

Kohli, who reached the milestone of 28,000 international runs during this knock, looked set for his 51st ODI century before falling for a majestic 93 off 91 balls. Alongside captain Shubman Gill (56) and Shreyas Iyer (49), Kohli put India in a position of absolute dominance at 234/2. However, the game took a dramatic turn when Kyle Jamieson (4/41) triggered a middle-order collapse, leaving India reeling and the Vadodara crowd in stunned silence.

The tension was finally defused by the calm presence of KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 29. Rahul’s composure under pressure, supported by a spirited cameo from Harshit Rana (29 off 23), ensured India crossed the line with four wickets in hand and six balls to spare. With this victory, India takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, heading to Rajkot with momentum and a reminder of the deep-seated IPL connections that continue to define modern cricket.

Also READ: Top 3 players with most Player of the Match awards in ODIs ft. Virat Kohli

Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli added yet another historic chapter to his legendary career by becoming the fastest batter to reach 28,000 international runs during India’s four-wicket win over New Zealand in the first ODI at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, on Sunday. The landmark came in Kohli’s 624th international innings, when he pierced the off-side with a crisp boundary off spinner Adithya Ashok, triggering loud celebrations from the packed crowd.

In doing so, Kohli eclipsed the long-standing benchmark held by Sachin Tendulkar, who had reached the same mark in 644 innings. The achievement also saw Kohli move past Kumar Sangakkara, further cementing his place among the greatest run-scorers the game has ever produced.

Virat Kohli breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s record with remarkable efficiency

Kohli’s journey to 28,000 runs stands out not just for its volume, but for the speed and consistency with which it has been achieved. By reaching the milestone 20 innings quicker than Tendulkar, the former India captain underlined how modern fitness, technique, and adaptability have shaped his run-making machine.

Only three batters in international cricket history have crossed the 28,000-run mark – Tendulkar, Sangakkara, and now Kohli. Sangakkara took 666 innings to reach the figure, while Ricky Ponting narrowly missed out, finishing his career with 27,483 runs. Kohli’s acceleration across formats highlights a rare blend of longevity and sustained excellence that sets him apart even among legends.

Kohli: ‘The Chase Master’

The milestone came during a high-pressure run chase, a scenario where Kohli has repeatedly thrived. India were tasked with chasing New Zealand’s competitive 300 for 8, and Kohli anchored the innings with a sublime 93 off 91 balls. His knock included eight fours and one sixes, balancing control with timely aggression against a probing Black Caps bowling attack.

Key partnerships with Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer ensured India crossed the line with an over to spare, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead in the ODI series. Kohli was later named Player of the Match, a recognition he characteristically brushed aside with humor, asking officials to send the trophy to his mother in Gurgaon.

Format-wise breakdown of Kohli’s international runs

Kohli’s 28,000 international runs are spread seamlessly across all three formats, underlining his adaptability in an era of constant evolution. In Tests, he has amassed 9,230 runs across 210 innings at an average nearing 47, marked by 30 centuries and a reputation for delivering overseas under pressure.

ODIs form the backbone of his run tally, with 14,650 runs in 309 innings at an exceptional average of 58.60. His record 53 ODI centuries and unmatched success in run chases define this phase of his career. In T20Is, Kohli clubbed 4,188 runs in 117 innings, combining powerplay aggression with unmatched consistency, even registering one century in the format.

Overall, his 28,000 runs in 624 innings at an average above 52, with 84 international hundreds, make him the fastest across all major batting milestones.

Also READ: IND vs NZ – Virat Kohli reveals where does he keeps his Player of the Match awards

Kohli’s recent acceleration sets him apart from peers

What makes Kohli’s feat even more striking is the pace at which he has climbed recent milestones. He became the fastest to 25,000 international runs in just 549 innings and continued that surge by reaching 26,000 and 27,000 at record speed, the latter achieved in 594 innings against Bangladesh in 2024.

His Vadodara innings reflected the same hunger, even at the age of 37, as he continues to lead India’s batting resurgence in white-ball cricket. With fitness levels rivaling players a decade younger, Kohli shows little sign of slowing down.

Also READ: Top 3 cricketers with most Player of the Match awards in ODIs ft. Virat Kohli

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded to growing speculation around a possible change in venues for Bangladesh’s matches at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The reaction comes amid reports suggesting that the ICC is evaluating two alternative Indian venues for Bangladesh’s fixtures following concerns raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

Reports hint at two alternative Indian venues

On Monday, several reports claimed that the ICC is exploring alternative venues within India rather than relocating Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka. Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram were named as potential options, possibly replacing Kolkata and Mumbai, which are currently slated to host Bangladesh’s group-stage games.

BCCI reacts to reports of ICC’s ‘2 venues’ solution

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the Indian board remains in the dark over any proposed changes and stressed that the matter does not fall under BCCI’s authority at this stage. According to Saikia, the ICC alone is empowered to take decisions on venues for global tournaments, and the host board can act only after receiving official instructions.

He made it clear that the BCCI is proceeding strictly as per the existing tournament schedule and has not been informed about Bangladesh’s matches being moved from their designated venues. Any reports suggesting otherwise, Saikia noted, are speculative until confirmed by the ICC.

“The BCCI has not received any communication regarding the matter of shifting Bangladesh matches to Chennai or anywhere else, and it is beyond our control. It is a matter of communication between the BCB and the ICC, as the ICC is the governing body. If the ICC conveys any decision to us regarding a change of venue, the BCCI, as the host, will take the necessary steps. At present, we are not privy to any such information,” Saikia told IANS.

Also READ: Bangladesh name squad for T20 World Cup 2026; no place for Jaker Ali

Bangladesh’s security concerns and ICC response

The issue surfaced after the BCB reportedly wrote to the ICC, requesting that Bangladesh’s group-stage matches be shifted out of India due to security concerns arising from diplomatic tensions in the region. Sri Lanka was cited as Bangladesh’s preferred alternative venue. In its correspondence, the BCB indicated that it had received an acknowledgment from the ICC, with assurances that the matter would be reviewed. However, no final decision has been communicated publicly by the ICC, leaving room for speculation over possible adjustments.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh write to ICC over security concerns in India

A rain-affected encounter at the Sydney Showground Stadium saw Sydney Thunder register a crucial four-wicket win over Melbourne Renegades via the DLS method in Match 33 of the Big Bash League 2025–26 season. Chasing a revised target after interruptions, the Thunder rode on a blistering late cameo from Chris Green to seal the contest with 28 balls to spare.

Melbourne Renegades post competitive 170 despite mixed innings

Asked to bat first after Thunder skipper opted to bowl, Melbourne Renegades posted a competitive 170 for 8 in their 20 overs. The innings was built on steady starts from Josh Brown and Tim Seifert, who added vital runs at the top. Brown’s aggressive 35 off 25, featuring three fours and as many sixes, set the tempo, while Seifert chipped in with a fluent 29.

The middle order, however, struggled to convert starts into big scores. Jake Fraser-McGurk’s quick 19 off just nine balls provided momentum, but wickets at regular intervals prevented the Renegades from fully capitalising. Mohammad Rizwan anchored briefly with 26, before Hassan Khan played the defining knock of the innings. His 46 off 31 balls, laced with four towering sixes, lifted the Renegades past the 160-run mark and ensured a competitive total.

For the Thunder, Wes Agar and Ryan Hadley were the standout bowlers, picking up two wickets each. David Willey also struck twice, though he proved expensive at the death as the Renegades accelerated in the final overs.

Also READ: BBL|15 – Sam Harper’s electrifying 84 not out steers Melbourne Stars to a commanding win over Melbourne Renegades

Sydney Thunder chase disrupted by rain but Chris Green turns the tide

Sydney Thunder’s reply was frequently halted by rain, resulting in a revised target under DLS. The chase began shakily as early wickets pegged the hosts back, with Matthew Gilkes and Cameron Bancroft falling cheaply. Sam Konstas showed early intent with a brisk 18, while Sam Billings attempted to stabilise the innings with a composed 33.

The real momentum shift came through Nic Maddinson, whose attacking 30 off 17 balls reignited Thunder’s hopes. Yet, just when the game seemed evenly poised, it was Green who changed the complexion entirely. Walking in under pressure, Green unleashed a stunning 34 off just 13 deliveries, smashing three fours and three sixes to swing the DLS equation firmly in Thunder’s favour.

Despite Gurinder Sandhu’s impressive four-wicket haul for the Renegades, the damage was already done. Green’s onslaught ensured the Thunder crossed the revised target at 140 for 6 in just 15.2 overs. Green was deservingly named Player of the Match for his match-defining knock under pressure.

Chris Green’s unbeaten cameo earns him the Player of the Match award against the Melbourne Renegades ⚡#ChrisGreen #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/jet0tZa42u

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 12, 2026

Also WATCH: “Like a 4-year-old…” – David Warner complains to umpire about Pakistan pacer’s bowling in BBL|15

India’s victory in the opening ODI against New Zealand at Vadodara was significant not just for the result, but for the tactical conversations it triggered. One decision in particular stood out — KL Rahul being slotted at No.6. While fans debated whether a proven top-order batter was being underused, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has offered a detailed explanation, explaining why the move is both logical and forward-thinking in modern-day ODIs.

A tense chase sets the stage for tactical calls

Batting first, New Zealand put India under pressure with a competitive total just short of the 300-run mark. The pitch offered some grip as the innings progressed, making stroke-making less straightforward in the latter half. India’s reply was anchored by Virat Kohli, who once again showcased his ODI mastery with a fluent 93, narrowly missing out on a century. At the top, Shubman Gill provided stability, ensuring India stayed in the chase despite a few testing phases.

As wickets fell and the asking rate hovered in an uncomfortable zone, the responsibility shifted to the lower middle order to close out the game — a scenario where composure mattered more than flair.

KL Rahul’s calm presence at No.6

Walking in at No.6, Rahul immediately brought clarity to the chase. Rather than forcing boundaries, he focused on strike rotation, waited for loose deliveries, and ensured the required rate never spiralled out of control. His measured approach allowed India to cross the line with overs to spare, sealing a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.

While the innings may not have been explosive, it was precisely what the situation demanded — a controlled finish under pressure.

Also READ: Top 3 cricketers with most Player of the Match awards in ODIs ft. Virat Kohli

Irfan Pathan explains the logic behind India’s move to keep Rahul at No.6

Addressing the debate on his YouTube channel, Pathan highlighted how the evolving nature of ODIs has changed batting roles. He pointed out that with the ball now tending to reverse slightly after the 34th over — or alternatively becoming slower if reverse swing doesn’t kick in — the final phase of an innings is no longer tailor-made for pure power-hitters alone. In such conditions, technically sound batters who can manoeuvre the field and handle subtle movement become invaluable.

Pathan noted that while other batters looked slightly uncomfortable in the first ODI, Rahul appeared completely in control, underlining the value of his technique and game awareness. His ability to keep ticking the scoreboard with singles, Pathan explained, was the difference between panic and poise in a tricky chase.

“When KL Rahul bats, people often ask why he is batting so low. But we need to keep in mind that the rule has now changed because the ball reverses slightly after the 34th over. If the ball doesn’t reverse, it is slow. In those situations, a technically correct batter makes a difference. Other batters were getting slightly troubled in the first ODI, but Rahul was well in control. Rahul showed what his approach was when he kept taking singles,” said Pathan.

A role built for modern ODI cricket

Rahul’s placement at No.6 seems less like an experiment and more like a calculated strategy. With ODIs increasingly being decided in the final 15 overs, India appear keen to station their most dependable decision-makers where pressure peaks. Rather than exposing Rahul to the new ball or early aggression, the team management is backing him to finish games — a role that demands maturity, adaptability, and calm execution.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Rib injury sidelines Washington Sundar for remainder of ODI series; replacement announced

The cricketing world is no stranger to the vocal opinions of former Indian batter turned commentator, Sanjay Manjrekar. However, the latest chapter in his long-standing history of critiquing Virat Kohli has hit a personal nerve. Following the opening match of the India vs New Zealand ODI series in January 2026, a social media storm erupted—not just because of the action on the field, but due to a sharp rebuttal from Virat’s brother, Vikas Kohli.

The tension stems from Manjrekar’s recent comments questioning Virat’s decision to retire from Test cricket in 2025 while continuing to play the 50-over format. Manjrekar went as far as labeling ODIs the easiest format for top-order batters, suggesting that Kohli walked away from the challenges of the red-ball game rather than fixing his technical flaws.

Vikas, who has often acted as a shield for his brother against online vitriol, didn’t hold back this time. Taking to social media shortly after the 1st ODI in Vadodara, Vikas shared a cryptic yet pointed message to Manjrekar’s critique.

“Such an easy format isn’t it… someone gave his gyaan few days back… easier said than done,” Vikas wrote on social media. In a separate post that went viral few days earlier, he added, “Seems like logon ki daal roti nahi chalti bina Virat Kohli ka naam liye hue” (It seems like people can’t earn their bread and butter without mentioning Virat Kohli).

While Vikas refrained from naming Manjrekar directly, the timing was unmistakable. Manjrekar had recently doubled down on his stance, arguing that top-order batters in ODIs face no slips or gully and essentially queue up to bat in the top three because of how easy it is to score. Vikas’ retort served as a reminder that performing under the weight of a billion expectations is never easy, regardless of the format.

Also READ: Top 3 players with most Player of the Match awards in ODIs ft. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s masterclass run in ODIs silences critics

While the war of words intensified off the field, Virat responded in the way he knows best—by dominating the 22 yards. In the first ODI against New Zealand, Kohli played a masterful knock of 93 off 91 balls, anchoring a tense 301-run chase. Though he narrowly missed out on his 85th international century, his performance was a tactical clinic in middle-overs accumulation and strike rotation.

This innings wasn’t an isolated event but a continuation of a massive purple patch for the veteran. Kohli entered the New Zealand series on the back of a stellar domestic run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and a dominant showing against South Africa. During his 93-run stay at the crease in Vadodara, Virat achieved two monumental milestones:

• 28,000 international runs: He became the fastest player to reach this landmark, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar by 20 innings.
• Historical climb: He moved past Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in the history of international cricket, now trailing only Tendulkar.

Far from finding the format easy, Kohli’s recent form suggests a player who has evolved his game to maintain a strike rate above 100 while remaining the team’s most reliable anchor. As the series moves forward, the King seems intent on proving that while commentators may talk, class is permanent.

Also READ: Fans go berserk as Virat Kohli and Harshit Rana power India to thrilling ODI win over New Zealand in Vadodara

India’s injury concerns deepened on Sunday after all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the remainder of the ODI series against New Zealand due to a rib injury sustained during the opening match in Vadodara. The setback comes at a time when the Indian camp is already grappling with multiple fitness issues ahead of a busy home season.

Washington Sundar ruled out of ODI leg due to rib injury

The 26-year-old picked up discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling in the first ODI. Sundar managed to complete five overs, conceding 27 runs, but was forced to walk off the field midway through the New Zealand innings. He did not return to field for the rest of the innings, raising early concerns among the team management and medical staff.

Despite the injury, Sundar displayed commendable resilience by walking out to bat at No. 8 during India’s chase. Clearly in discomfort, he still contributed in a tense phase of the match as India went on to secure a four-wicket victory. However, post-match assessments confirmed that the injury required careful monitoring, leading to his eventual exclusion from the remaining games.

Notably, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the development, stating that Sundar had been ruled out following the onset of pain in the rib region. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to avoid aggravating the injury, especially with a long international calendar ahead.

“Washington Sundar reported an acute onset discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara, on Sunday. He will undergo further scans, following which the BCCI Medical Team will seek expert opinion. Washington has been ruled out of the remaining two matches of the ODI series,” read the statement from BCCI.

Also READ: Former opener explains how Yashasvi Jaiswal can become a three-format player for Team India

Replacement announced for Sundar

Following Sundar’s exclusion from the ODI series, BCCI confirmed that the Men’s Selection Committee has named Ayush Badoni as his replacement in the squad. The young all-rounder has been drafted in to bolster India’s options ahead of the remaining two matches of the series. Badoni is expected to join the team in Rajkot, which will host the second ODI on January 14, and will be available for selection as the team management reshuffles its combination following Sundar’s injury.

“The Men’s Selection Committee has named Ayush Badoni as his replacement. Badoni will link up with the squad in Rajkot, the venue for the second ODI,” added BCCI.

Mounting injury list worries India

Sundar is the third Indian player to be hit by injury concerns in quick succession. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was earlier ruled out of the ODI series after suffering a side strain, while young batter Tilak Varma will miss the first three T20Is following groin surgery. The growing list of unavailable players has added pressure on the team management as they aim to manage workloads without compromising performance.

Also READ: Top 3 cricketers with most Player of the Match awards in ODIs ft. Virat Kohli

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.

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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.