![Virat Kohli goes past MS Dhoni [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1794286737920_ViratKohliMSDhoni.jpg?type=hq)
Virat Kohli goes past MS Dhoni [Source: AFP]
During the third ODI between India and New Zealand, star cricketer Virat Kohli achieved a unique record that helped him get past legend MS Dhoni. It solidified Kohli’s greatness in the 50-over format, especially against the Kiwis.
The third ODI was scheduled to be held at Seddon Park in Hamilton. But relentless rain and drizzle delayed the proceedings. Regardless, with Kohli listed to feature in the starting eleven, he unlocked a new milestone for himself.
Most ODIs for India in New Zealand: Virat Kohli goes past MS Dhoni
Interestingly, Virat Kohli has gone past former legendary India captain MS Dhoni in the list of Indian cricketers with the most ODI appearances in New Zealand. Kohli has now featured in 16 ODIs on New Zealand soil, moving ahead of Dhoni, who finished his career with 15 appearances in the country.
Interestingly, Kohli is now just one appearance behind Mohammad Azharuddin, who played 19 ODIs in New Zealand. The 37-year-old also has three more appearances to make to equal the joint record held by Sachin Tendulkar and Javagal Srinath, who top the list with 22 matches each.
Most ODI Matches for India in New Zealand:
- 22 - Javagal Srinath, Sachin Tendulkar
- 19 - Mohammad Azharuddin
- 17 - Rohit Sharma*
- 16 - Virat Kohli*
- 15 - MS Dhoni
Needless to say, this record is an important feather in Virat Kohli’s illustrious ODI career cap. He has been fairly successful in New Zealand, scoring 677 runs in ODIs at an average of 48.35 and a strike rate of 95.35, including a hundred and five fifties.
Virat Kohli’s best ODI performance in New Zealand
Notably, one of the most memorable ODI innings of Virat Kohli in New Zealand conditions came in 2014. In the first ODI of the tour, India had to chase 293 runs at Napier.
Kohli produced a magnificent innings under pressure, scoring 123 off 111 balls, including seven fours and two sixes. To date, this is Kohli’s highest ODI score in New Zealand.
However, in a brutal twist of fate, Kohli’s efforts went in vain as India were bowled out for 268, losing the contest by 24 runs. Still, Virat Kohli emerged as the real star, and it was just the beginning of his legendary 50-over career.
