Royal entry before the battle: Virat Kohli leads India’s early push ahead of New Zealand ODI Series

As Team India begins preparations for its first international assignment of 2026, Virat Kohli arrives a day early in Vadodara, signalling intent, focus and a clear target, form, fitness and records ahead of the New Zealand ODIs.

The countdown has officially begun for India’s first international assignment of 2026, with the Men in Blue set to face New Zealand in a three-match One Day International series. As preparations gather momentum, Team India’s management has rolled out a special training plan, underlining the importance of the series.

A focused preparatory camp has been organised in Vadodara, where Indian players will assemble and begin structured training sessions from today. However, even before the full squad reported, one familiar figure made headlines with an early arrival, Virat Kohli.

Kohli reached Vadodara a day ahead of schedule, marking what fans described as a “royal entry”. After featuring in two matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the former India captain had travelled overseas. He returned from London to Mumbai on Wednesday, briefly went home, and within hours was back at the airport to board a flight to Vadodara. His decision to report early reflects how seriously he is treating the New Zealand series.

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As Kohli arrived in Vadodara, fans gathered in large numbers, eager to catch a glimpse of the star batter. The early arrival has also sent a strong message about his mindset as the new year begins.

The New Zealand series marks India’s first task of 2026, and the team is keen to start the year on a positive note. For Kohli, the motivation goes beyond just the series. With the 2027 ODI World Cup as a long-term goal, every series from here on becomes crucial.

Kohli ended the 2025 calendar year on a high and is determined to carry that momentum forward. Currently in good batting form, he is keen to hit the practice nets early to maintain rhythm and consistency.

Statistically, New Zealand remains one of Kohli’s favourite opponents in ODI cricket. In 33 innings against the Black Caps, he has scored 1,657 runs at an impressive average of 55.23. His record includes six centuries and nine half-centuries, with 15 scores above fifty and 148 boundaries, underlining his dominance against the Kiwi bowling attack.

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The upcoming three-match series also offers Kohli a shot at a major personal milestone. He is just 443 runs away from completing 15,000 runs in ODI cricket, having already accumulated 14,557 runs in the format. A strong showing against New Zealand could see him reach the landmark.

With reports of ongoing discussions within management circles and growing competition for places, performances in every match now carry added weight. For Kohli, this series, and every outing going forward, has become a must-deliver phase as he keeps his World Cup ambitions alive.

As Team India begins its 2026 journey, all eyes will be on Vadodara, where preparation, pressure and promise come together, with Virat Kohli leading the charge.

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