The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for a crucial home ODI series New Zealanddiscussions around Virat Kohli they once again took center stage. But this time, it was not the star batsman’s on-field battles, but his brother’s sharp remarks. Vikas Kohli It attracted attention as he openly targeted Kohli’s critics ahead of the three-match series.
Vikas Kohli fires back at his brother Virat’s critics
Vikas, who has often stood by his brother through highs and lows, gave a candid message on social media platform Threads. Without directly naming anyone, he suggested that a section of commentators and critics put too much faith in Virat’s name for relevance.
Vikas wrote in his post in Hindi stating that there are some people “They can’t run their house without mentioning Virat Kohli.” The remark was widely interpreted as a frustration at the constant criticism that followed the former India captain, irrespective of his form and contributions. While Vikas refrained from calling out specific individuals, the tone of his statement reflected weariness with the constant scrutiny surrounding one of India’s most popular cricketers.
“Looks like LOGON KI DAAL ROTI NAHI CHALTI….BINA VIRAT KOHLI KA NAAM LIYE HUE,” wrote Vikas.

Virat’s arrival sparks 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 created quite a stir, with fans thronging in large numbers just to catch a glimpse of the batting icon. Security had to be beefed up as chants and cheers filled the terminal, highlighting Virat’s continued popularity across the country.
Notably, India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the first ODI at the BCA Stadium on Sunday, January 11. The series looks like an important task for India as they continue their preparations for the upcoming global tournaments.
Also READ: Jacob Duffy got the first call-up as New Zealand announced their T20 World Cup 2026 squad
A strong ODI form and domestic comeback boosts confidence
Virat enters the New Zealand series in impressive form in the 50-over format. Recently, he was instrumental in India’s 2-1 ODI series win South Africa at home. The veteran batsman scored back-to-back centuries in the first two matches, scoring 135 off 120, followed by a free 102 off 93. He finished as the top scorer with 302 runs from three innings, finishing unbeaten on 65 off just 45 balls in the decider. The performances silenced many doubters and reaffirmed his dominance in ODIs.
Adding another layer to his resurgence, Virat returned to domestic cricket last month Vijay Hazare trophy for Delhihis first appearance in the competition in nearly 15 years. He made an immediate impact, scoring an excellent 131 against 101 balls Andhra Before following it up with a brisk 77 against 61 balls Gujarat.
A strong side in form and supported by his family, the fans are optimistic that Virat will continue his rich vein of scoring in the ODIs against the Kiwis and once again let his bat do the talking amid the noise off the field.

