Kohli's 74‑run blitz steers India past New Zealand in Auckland ODI

Virat Kohli smashed 74 runs from 51 deliveries in the opening one‑day international against New Zealand in Auckland, guiding India past a struggling batting line‑up on a low‑bounce surface. The pitch behaved like a tennis ball, but Kohli timed each ball and stayed on top of the bounce. While his teammates failed to make an impact, Shubman Gill found some relief as Kohli rotated the strike quickly, keeping the bowlers under pressure. Former India coach Ravi Shastri, speaking on Sony Sports, said a score of around 70 on such a tricky surface is equivalent to a century. He added that Kohli never got ahead of himself, remained in a controlled rhythm and showed visible frustration when dismissed for 38 in a previous game, a reaction that younger players will note. Delhi’s Ranji side continues to falter, and head coach Vijay Dahiya said he hopes to add Kohli to the squad for the Vijay Hazare one‑day tournament that starts on December 14. After Delhi’s draw with Services, Dahiya told reporters at the Air Force Complex in Palam that he would push Kohli to share lessons on hard work and mindset. Earlier reports indicated former captain Rohit Sharma has signaled his availability for the same one‑day competition after India finishes its three‑match ODI series with Sri Lanka. ## Context Kohli’s quickfire innings came on a surface that typically favours bowlers, making his run‑making especially valuable for India’s batting stability. The upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy will be a chance for domestic sides to field national stars and test squad depth ahead of future international commitments.