Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma: Which India Legend Has a Better ODI Record Against New Zealand?

India are gearing up for a five-match ODI series against New Zealand, beginning November 4, 2026, at Eden Park in Auckland. With the World Cup 2027 approaching, the series will be an important assignment for veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, back into ODI action against the Black Caps.

Kohli and Rohit remain central figures in India's batting plans in the 50-over format. While Kohli has established himself as one of the most prolific ODI run-scorers in cricket history, Rohit has built his reputation around his explosive opening batting.

Kohli has traditionally been prolific against New Zealand, combining consistency with an impressive scoring rate, while Rohit has produced several memorable innings, including two ODI centuries against the side.

Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma: ODI Record Against New Zealand

According to statistics updated ahead of the November 2026 series, Kohli has scored 1,897 runs in 36 ODIs against New Zealand, averaging 57.48 at a strike rate of 96.64. His record includes seven centuries and 10 half-centuries, with a highest score of 154 not out. He is also just 103 runs away from becoming the first Indian batter to score 2,000 ODI runs against New Zealand.

Rohit, meanwhile, has accumulated 1,134 runs in 34 ODIs against the Black Caps, averaging 36.58 at a strike rate of 85.26. The Indian opener has scored two centuries and six half-centuries, with his highest score being 147, which came against New Zealand in Kanpur in October 2017. He has also struck 49 sixes against the opposition and is one maximum away from reaching the 50-six milestone.

Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma: ODI Record Against New Zealand

Statistics updated before the November 2026 ODI series.

Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma: Who Leads the Battle?

A comparison of their overall ODI records against New Zealand shows Kohli ahead in several major batting parameters. The former India captain has scored 763 more runs than Rohit despite playing only two additional matches against the Black Caps.

Kohli also holds a significant advantage in batting average, strike rate and centuries. His average of 57.48 is considerably higher than Rohit's 36.58, while his strike rate of 96.64 reflects his ability to combine consistency with aggressive scoring.

In terms of centuries, Kohli has seven hundreds against New Zealand compared to Rohit's two. He also has four more half-centuries. However, Rohit has hit 49 sixes against the opposition, considerably more than Kohli's 28, highlighting his aggressive approach and ability to clear the boundary.

The numbers underline the difference in their batting approaches. Kohli has been more consistent in terms of run accumulation and averages, while Rohit's six-hitting ability has been a notable feature of his performances against New Zealand.

Record in New Zealand

Kohli has played 13 ODIs in the country, scoring 596 runs at an average of 49.66 and a strike rate of 91.41. He has registered one century and four half-centuries, demonstrating his ability to adapt to conditions away from home.

Rohit has featured in 14 ODIs in New Zealand, scoring 437 runs at an average of 36.42 and a strike rate of 72.95. Although he has four half-centuries in the country, he is yet to register an ODI hundred on New Zealand soil. His highest score there remains 87, scored against the Black Caps at Mount Maunganui in January 2019.

What to Expect from Kohli and Rohit in IND vs NZ ODIs 2026?

With five matches scheduled across Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Mount Maunganui, the upcoming series presents both batters with an opportunity to add to their impressive ODI careers. The conditions in New Zealand, particularly the pace and bounce on offer, will test their adaptability and experience.