For Virat Kohli, victory means ‘standing together’

After a successful tour of Australia, India have managed to carry on with their rich vein of form even in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. Virat Kohli and Co thumped their opponents at the McLean Park in Napier to take a 1-0 lead in the series. The Men in Blue didn’t allow the momentum to shift and also emerged victorious by 90 runs in the second ODI at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.

Most importantly, they now lead the series 2-0 and need only one victory out of the remaining three matches to seal the fate of the series. India won the toss and elected to bat first and the decision paid dividends as they were able to rack up a significant 324 for four in their allotted 50 overs. The opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan compiled a partnership of 154 runs from 152 balls.

A delighted Virat Kohli

Rohit was the first Indian wicket to fall for 87. Dhawan also couldn’t carry on after scoring 66. Kohli and Ambati Rayudu scored in the 40s. MS Dhoni’s 33-ball 48 propelled India’s score in the death overs. The Black Caps were attacking during their run-chase, but lost wickets at regular intervals. Subsequently, they failed to build any sort of momentum and hence found themselves behind the 8-ball.

Each of their top six batsmen got into double figures, but none could go on to score big. The Kiwis were eventually bowled out for 234 with 58 balls remaining. Doug Bracewell’s 46-ball 57 went in vain. In the meantime, Kohli, who scored 43 from 45 today, was happy after his team stood together.

India is also celebrating its 70th Republic Day and Kohli wished everyone on the auspicious occasion. He took to Twitter and wrote “Our victory lies in standing together. Happy republic day to all my fellow Indians. Jai Hind”

Here is Virat’s tweet

Our victory lies in standing together. Happy republic day to all my fellow Indians. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/bKs9FjQh5H

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 26, 2019

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