Virat Kohli Set to Break 32-Year Record as India Faces New Zealand in Rajkot

Rajkot, India: The cricketing world turns its gaze toward the Niranjan Shah Stadium today, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, as the Indian National Cricket Team prepares for a high-stakes showdown. In the second match of the three-match ODI series, Team India is set to face New Zealand with a singular mission: clinching an unassailable 2-0 lead. This isn’t just a match for the series; it is a battle for total dominance over the elite ‘SENA’ group of cricketing nations.

Having already secured a thrilling victory in the first ODI at Vadodara, Shubman Gill’s men are riding a wave of immense confidence. A win in Rajkot would mark India’s fourth consecutive home series victory against the powerhouse SENA nations—South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia. With the first three already conquered, the “Black Caps” remain the final hurdle in India’s quest for home-soil supremacy.

The Virat Kohli Phenomenon: Chasing A Record No Indian Has Ever Touched

The legendary Virat Kohli is currently standing at the gateway of cricketing immortality. The “Run Machine” has been in terrifying form, striking five consecutive fifty-plus scores in his last five ODI innings. This incredible streak has seen him equal the legendary feats of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Rohit Sharma.

If Kohli crosses the 50-run mark in Rajkot today, he will become the first Indian in history to record six consecutive ODI half-centuries. His current run is staggering, having amassed 469 runs in his last five outings at an average of 156.33. Fans at the Niranjan Shah Stadium are bracing for a masterclass as the King looks to stand alone at the top of the record books.

SENA Countries Under Siege: India’s Relentless Home Winning Streak

The acronym ‘SENA’ represents the toughest challenges in world cricket: South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia. Historically, these teams have posed the greatest threat to India’s dominance. However, the current era of Indian cricket has turned their home ground into a fortress that no one can breach.

By defeating South Africa, England, and Australia in the most recent home series, India has sent a clear message to the world. New Zealand is the only SENA member left to defeat in this current cycle. A victory today would complete the “Clean Sweep” of series wins against the elite four, solidifying India’s status as the undisputed kings of home conditions.

Rajkot Pitch Report: A Batting Paradise With A Crucial Toss Factor

The Niranjan Shah Stadium is world-renowned for being a “Batting Paradise.” With an average first-innings score of 321 runs, the bowlers are expected to have a difficult day under the sun. However, the history of this ground suggests a very specific trend that could decide the match even before the first ball is bowled.

Data shows that in all four ODIs played at this venue, the team batting first has emerged victorious. Chasing high totals has proven to be a nightmare in Rajkot. Therefore, the toss at 1:00 PM IST will be a critical moment, with both captains likely desperate to bat first and put a mountainous total on the scoreboard.

Squad Shake-Up: Ayush Badoni Maiden Call-Up Amid Washington Sundar Injury

In a major development for the Indian squad, star all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. Sundar suffered an acute injury to his left lower rib during the opening game in Vadodara. This setback has opened the door for one of India’s brightest young talents, Ayush Badoni.

Badoni, the Delhi and Lucknow Super Giants sensation, has received his maiden ODI call-up. Known for his finishing abilities and handy off-spin, Badoni is a strong contender for a spot in the middle order. However, team management is also considering Nitish Kumar Reddy, a pace-bowling all-rounder, to provide more balance to the attack.

New Zealand’s Struggle: A Nine-Year Winning Drought On Indian Soil

For the Kiwis, the statistics are grim. New Zealand has not won an ODI match in India for nearly nine years. Their record in the country is lackluster, with only 8 wins in 40 matches played. Currently, India holds a 63-50 head-to-head advantage over the visitors.

Under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, the young New Zealand side is facing a “Do or Die” situation. To keep the series alive, they must find a way to stop the Indian top order, particularly Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who have been ruthless. Without their veteran stalwarts like Kane Williamson, the pressure on the young Kiwi core is at an all-time high.

Champions Trophy 2026 Preparations: Every Run Counts

With the ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon, this series serves as a vital testing ground. Team India is looking to finalize its combination and build mental toughness against top-tier opposition. Winning against New Zealand in Rajkot would provide the perfect psychological edge heading into a major tournament year.

The match is scheduled to start at 1:30 PM IST. As the afternoon heat sets in, the intensity of the rivalry is expected to reach a boiling point. Whether it is Kohli’s record-breaking pursuit or India’s quest to dismantle the final SENA fortress, the second ODI in Rajkot promises to be an epic encounter.

Probable Playing XI For Today’s High-Voltage Clash

Team India: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ayush Badoni/Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj.

New Zealand: Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay (WK), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell (C), Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Foulkes, Aditya Ashok.

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