Virat Kohli is a name that echoes dominance in modern-day cricket. With over 13,000 runs in ODIs, an average above 50, and countless match-winning knocks, there's little in India—or the world—that Kohli hasn't conquered. But there’s one Indian stadium that stands out for an unexpected reason: Indore.
Yes, the same batting-friendly Holkar Stadium in Indore, known for high-scoring thrillers, continues to be an odd blind spot in Kohli’s glittering ODI resume. In four innings here, the former India captain has scored just 99 runs, with a highest of 36. No half-centuries. No centuries. In fact, Indore is the only Indian venue where Kohli has played more than two ODIs and hasn’t registered a single 50-plus score.
It’s not about pitch conditions or opposition quality. Indore has seen plenty of runs. Rohit Sharma, for instance, has a much healthier record at the venue—205 runs from five innings, including a century and a fifty. He’s looked comfortable here, adapting to the surface and taking the attack to the bowlers.
But the one player who’s turned Indore into a personal run-fest is Shubman Gill. The young Indian skipper has played just two ODIs at this ground, and both resulted in centuries. A total of 216 runs in two innings, with timing, confidence, and shot selection that looked effortless. He’s already made Indore his own, and at just 24, that’s quite a statement.
As India gear up for the series decider against New Zealand at Holkar Stadium, all eyes will once again be on Kohli. This might be his final opportunity to set the record straight at a venue that’s quietly eluded him. And knowing Kohli, that’s more than enough motivation.
Records don’t always tell the full story, but sometimes, they leave a curious gap—something fans remember, something players chase. Indore is that gap for Kohli.
Will Sunday be the day he finally ticks that box? Or will Shubman Gill continue his dream run at his favourite hunting ground?
One thing’s for sure: Indore is about to witness something special.
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