Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli showcased his exceptional form in the first match of 2026, delivering a stellar performance against New Zealand in the opening One Day International. However, despite his brilliant batting display, King Kohli narrowly missed. Out on a well-deserved century, departing for a magnificent 93 runs. This near-miss not only left him short of a personal milestone but also dashed the. Hopes of millions of fans who were eagerly anticipating another triple-figure score from the prolific run-scorer.
A Resilient Half-Century
After the early dismissal of captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli walked to the crease in the 9th over, taking on the responsibility of stabilizing the Indian innings, while he displayed remarkable composure and skill, facing 91 deliveries and striking 8 elegant fours and 1 powerful six during his stay. Kohli reached his half-century in just 44 balls by the 22nd over, providing a crucial foundation for Team India. Following his fifty, Kohli set his sights on the century mark, steadily progressing past the 90-run barrier, while this raised expectations among the spectators in the stadium and viewers worldwide, who believed a century was imminent.
Kyle Jamieson Ends Kohli's Charge
As Virat Kohli approached his century, the anticipation grew with every run. However, the game of cricket is full of unpredictable moments. In the 40th over, on the very first ball, New Zealand's. Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson managed to get the better of Kohli. The dismissal saw Kohli depart for 93 runs, just 7 runs shy of what would have been his 7th ODI century against New Zealand. This moment of disappointment was felt by both Kohli and his fans, as he was on the cusp of achieving a significant milestone and breaking a long-standing record.
Equaling Sachin Tendulkar's Milestone
Despite missing out on his century, Virat Kohli achieved a significant feat by equaling a major record held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli matched Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most runs scored against New Zealand in ODIs by an Asian batsman. Both cricketing stalwarts now have 1750 runs against New Zealand in the 50-over format, while this achievement underscores Kohli's consistent brilliance and his exceptional record against the Black Caps. However, he fell just one run short of surpassing Tendulkar, meaning the. Wait to claim this record outright will extend to the next match.
Missed Opportunity for Most Centuries
Beyond the run-scoring record, Virat Kohli also had an opportunity to become the batsman with the most centuries against New Zealand in ODI cricket. Had he converted his 93 into a hundred, it would have been his 7th ODI century against New Zealand, while currently, Kohli is tied with former Indian opener Virender Sehwag and Australian legend Ricky Ponting, with all three batsmen having scored 6 centuries each against New Zealand in ODIs. Missing this chance means Kohli will have to wait for. The next encounter to potentially claim this unique record for himself.
Anticipation for the Next Match
All eyes are now on the upcoming ODI, where Virat Kohli will. Have another golden opportunity to etch his name further into the record books. With just one run needed to surpass Sachin Tendulkar, Kohli is poised to. Become the highest run-scorer against New Zealand among Asian batsmen in the next match. On top of that, he will also have the chance to score his 7th century against. New Zealand, thereby moving past Virender Sehwag and Ricky Ponting in that elite list. Fans are eagerly hoping that King Kohli will achieve both these. Historic milestones in the next game, leading Team India to victory.
