Tickner calls playing Kohli an awesome chance as NZ seek ODI comeback

Blair Tickner said playing against Virat Kohli is an awesome opportunity as New Zealand aim to bounce back after a 5‑wicket loss in the opening ODI. Kohli scored 74 runs and helped India chase a rain‑adjusted target of 143 in 32 overs to win by five wickets. Tickner noted Kohli “obviously” was in good form and said New Zealand will find a way to get him out soon. He added that the team knows they did not score enough runs and will try to improve with the ball. New Zealand will also miss opener Devon Conway, who suffered a concussion in a freak training‑ground accident, and Kelly will replace him, giving Nick a chance to step up. In the first match, Kohli and Shubman Gill put on a 113‑run partnership for the second wicket, guiding India to 143 for five in 22.4 overs after a late fumble. Earlier, India’s pace trio Arshdeep Singh (4/70), Gurnoor Brar (3/44) and Anshul Kamboj (2/22) exploited overcast conditions to bowl New Zealand out for 185 in 40.2 overs.

Context

The DLS method revises targets when rain shortens an innings, and overcast weather often assists fast bowlers by offering seam movement. Concussions in cricket can occur during practice, leading to immediate replacement under safety protocols.