Virat Kohli prepares for New Zealand tour as ODI focus

Virat Kohli is set to return to New Zealand in October 2026 for a high-stakes India tour featuring five ODIs, five T20Is and two Tests, with his ODI form under close watch as the 2027 World Cup approaches.

How does Virat Kohli’s ODI record in New Zealand compare to Rohit Sharma’s?

Virat Kohli boasts a dominant ODI average of 52.38 in New Zealand, while Rohit Sharma has struggled with an average of just 32.46 on Kiwi pitches, according to recent analysis ahead of the tour. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged both as 'masters of the ODI game' but expressed hope that their past success on local pitches would not continue this time. Santner noted that India’s top order has historically taken a liking to New Zealand conditions, adding pressure on the Blackcaps to find answers.

What is the scope of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s business empire?

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have built a combined business portfolio valued at over ₹1,300 crore, spanning fashion, hospitality, food-tech, fitness, media and startup investments. Kohli’s individual net worth is estimated between ₹1,050 crore and ₹1,115 crore, driven by his IPL salary of ₹21 crore per season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a ₹3 crore BCCI central contract, and endorsement deals ranging from ₹7.5 crore to ₹10 crore each. The couple’s wealth also stems from equity partnerships and ventures tied to Kohli’s personal brand.

What did Sanjay Bangar reveal about Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni’s off-field relationship?

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar said he rarely saw Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni spend time together off the field, attributing the distance to their contrasting personalities. Bangar explained that Dhoni preferred staying in his hotel room, while Kohli was always eager to go out, explore new places and visit restaurants. Despite the limited off-field interaction, Bangar emphasized Dhoni’s important role in Kohli’s early career, noting that the former captain’s guidance during Kohli’s 2008 ODI debut under his leadership was decisive for his development.

What is the full schedule for India’s tour of New Zealand in October-November 2026?

India will play five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests in New Zealand during the October-November 2026 window. The tour serves as a key lead-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup, with both Kohli and Sharma having shifted focus exclusively to 50-over cricket. New Zealand aims to win the ODI series at home as a primary target, with Santner calling it an 'awesome thing' ahead of their World Cup preparations in England in September 2027.

• Virat Kohli’s ODI average in New Zealand is 52.38, compared to Rohit Sharma’s 32.46
• Kohli and Sharma’s combined net worth exceeds ₹1,300 crore
• Kohli earns ₹21 crore per IPL season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru
• India’s tour of New Zealand includes five ODIs, five T20Is and two Tests in October-November 2026