Virat Kohli's record in Indore [Source: AFP]
India will face New Zealand in the third and final One Day International of the three-match series on January 18 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. This match has become very important, as both teams have won one game each. Therefore, this final encounter will decide the winner of the series.
As the teams move to Madhya Pradesh for the decider, there is a lot at stake for both sides. Shubman Gill, who is leading India in the 50-over format, is still searching for his first series win as captain. Hence, he will be keen to turn things around and end the series on a positive note.
At the same time, much attention will be on Virat Kohli, especially due to his modest record at this particular venue.
Virat Kohli’s unimpressive ODI record at Holkar Stadium
Notably, Virat Kohli has played four ODI matches at the Holkar Cricket Stadium so far. During these appearances, his overall numbers have not been very impressive. He has scored a total of 99 runs from 91 balls. His average at this venue stands at 33.00, while his strike rate is 108.79.
| Criteria | Stats |
| Matches | 4 |
| Runs | 99 |
| SR | 108.79 |
| Ave | 33.00 |
Looking at his individual scores, Kohli remained unbeaten on 23 against West Indies in 2011. Later, he managed 12 runs against South Africa in 2015. In 2017, he scored 28 against Australia.
Kohli made 36 runs against New Zealand in January 2023. Even though these innings showed some promise, none of them turned into a big or decisive knock for the team. As a result, Kohli is currently placed only 13th among the highest run-scorers in ODIs at this stadium.
Virat Kohli’s current form promises a turnaround in Indore
In contrast to his past record at Indore, Virat Kohli is enjoying an excellent run of form in recent times. After a tough phase where he scored two ducks in a row against Australia, he made a strong return.
In the third ODI against Australia, he scored 74 runs from 81 balls, showing great control and confidence.
Following that, during the home series against South Africa, Kohli was in complete command with the bat. He scored 302 runs in three innings, striking the ball fluently at a rate of 117.05 and averaging an outstanding 151.00.
Furthermore, his recent ODI scores include an unbeaten 74 against Australia, scores of 135, 102, and 65 not out against South Africa, and 93 against New Zealand.
In addition, Kohli also impressed in domestic cricket while playing for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. In the two matches he featured in, he scored 131 and 77, once again proving his strong rhythm with the bat.
Conclusion
Taking his recent performances into account, Virat Kohli appears to be in top touch. Although his past numbers at Indore are not very strong, the conditions at the Holkar Stadium are usually favourable for batters. The short boundaries and flat pitch often lead to high-scoring matches.
Therefore, this match presents a perfect chance for Kohli to improve his record at the venue. More importantly, he will aim to deliver a meaningful contribution that helps India secure the series in a memorable way.





