Brother Vikas hits back at Virat Kohli’s critics ahead of IND vs NZ ODI series

As the Indian men’s cricket team gears up for a crucial ODI home match New Zealanddiscussions around Virat Kohli are again central. This time, however, it was not the star player’s performance on the field, but a sharp remark from his brother Vikas Kohli that turned heads as he openly targeted Kohli’s critics ahead of the three-match series.

Vikas Kohli fires shots at his brother Virat’s critics

Vikas, who often supported his brother through highs and lows, delivered a blunt message on social media platform Threads. Without naming anyone directly, he suggested that a section of commentators and critics are heavily dependent on Virat’s name for relevance.

In his post, Vikas wrote in Hindi, implying that some people “Can’t run their household without mentioning Virat Kohli.” The comment was widely interpreted as frustration over the continued criticism of the former Indian captain, regardless of his form or contributions. Although Vikas refrained from addressing specific individuals, the tone of his statement reflected the weariness of the constant focus on one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.

“Looks like LOGON KI DAAL ROTI NAHI CHALTI….BINA VIRAT KOHLI KA NAAM LIYE HUE,” Vikas wrote.

Virat’s arrival is creating fan frenzy in Vadodara

Meanwhile, Virat landed in Vadodara on Wednesday, January 7, ahead of the series opener against New Zealand. His arrival at the airport caused quite a stir, with fans turning up in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the batting icon. Security had to be tightened as chants and cheers filled the terminal, underscoring Virat’s continued popularity across the country.

Notably, India and New Zealand will meet in the first ODI at the BCA Stadium on Sunday, January 11. The series is seen as an important assignment for India as they continue their preparations for upcoming global tournaments.

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Strong ODI form and domestic comeback boost confidence

Virat enters the New Zealand series in the 50-over format in impressive form. Recently, he played a crucial role in India’s 2-1 win in the ODI series South Africa At home. The veteran batsman struck back-to-back centuries in the first two matches, scoring an impressive 135 off 120 balls, followed by a smooth 102 off 93 balls. He ended the series with an unbeaten 65 off just 45 balls in the decider and finished as the highest run-scorer with 302 runs from three innings. The performances silenced many doubts and reaffirmed his dominance in ODIs.

Adding another layer to his revival, Virat returned to domestic cricket last month by playing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhihis first appearance in the competition in almost 15 years. He made an immediate impression, conceding no less than 131 off 101 balls Andhra before following it up with a solid 77 off 61 balls vs Gujarat.

With form firmly on his side and the support of his family, fans are optimistic that Virat will continue his rich scoring streak in the ODIs against the Kiwis, once again letting his bat do the talking amid the noise off the field.

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