Virat Kohli has emphatically put to rest any lingering questions about his form and longevity by delivering two sensational performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) ahead of India's upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. After a brief period where his consistency was questioned, Kohli returned to the domestic 50-over circuit after 15 years and immediately found his rhythm, registering a century and a half-century in consecutive matches.
In his first match back for Delhi, Kohli smashed 131 runs off just 101 balls against Andhra. He followed this up with a crucial 77 off 61 deliveries against Gujarat, an innings that helped Delhi secure a narrow seven-run victory. These dominant displays, featuring a high volume of boundaries, confirm the star batsman's readiness for the international stage, raising expectations for the three-match ODI series against the Kiwis starting January 11, 2026.
Kohli's commitment to playing domestic cricket, even opting for a third VHT match, underscores his meticulous preparation. His current run-scoring spree suggests he is in peak form, providing a major boost to the Indian lineup as they begin their new year challenge.

“He scored 131 off 101 against Andhra, hitting 3 sixes and 14 fours, and then 77 of 61 against Gujarat, an inning featuring 13 fours and a solitary six.”
Leading best batting average scorers in IPL 2025 (batting specialists only: batters/all-rounders/wicketkeepers)
| Rank | Player | Team | batting-average |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Mumbai Indians | 65.18 | |
#2 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 62.33 | |
#3 | Gujarat Titans | 59.78 | |
| #4 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 54.75 | |
| #5 | Gujarat Titans | 54.21 |
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The IPL, I only played two games but every game and every occasion. Definitely, just knowing what I'm able to get out of myself when the situation is like that and when the atmosphere is like that. I definitely had a lot more confidence coming into this game after playing in front of, I don't know, 50,000 - which felt like 100,000 - at the Chinnaswamy.
All-Rounder

While the BCCI has mandated centrally contracted players to feature in at least two matches, Virat Kohli has opted to play a third game as part of his preparation for the upcoming home series against New Zealand.
Batter

I think the timeframe will be kind on TD as well. So he should be available no matter what that injury is.
All-Rounder

“He scored 131 off 101 against Andhra, hitting 3 sixes and 14 fours, and then 77 of 61 against Gujarat, an inning featuring 13 fours and a solitary six.”