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New Delhi: The ODI series starting between India and New Zealand is not just a bilateral match. This series can witness a big change in the record books. Team India's two most senior batsmen, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both have historical figures in front of them. On one hand, Kohli is close to Sachin Tendulkar's record in terms of runs against New Zealand, while on the other hand, Rohit Sharma is standing on the threshold of leaving behind Jacques Kallis in ODI cricket.
Virat Kohli is not far away from becoming the highest run-scorer for an Indian in ODIs against New Zealand. Till now he has scored more than 1600 runs in more than 30 matches against the Kiwi team. Sachin Tendulkar's record is less than a hundred runs away from him. This gap can be erased in the three-match series.
Kohli's average against New Zealand has always been strong. He has consistently scored big scores here. Both patience and aggression are visible in his batting. For this reason this series is considered special for him.
Rohit Sharma can overtake Jacques Kallis in ODI cricket. Kallis has more than 11,500 ODI runs in his name. Rohit is just a few runs behind him. A good innings can take him higher in this list.
Rohit has been successful in giving aggressive starts in recent times. His strike rate in the powerplay gives the team an edge. Some of his centuries against New Zealand are still remembered. His confidence is clearly visible at this time.
Team India wants stability from this series. Considering the World Cup cycle, the importance of every match increases. The performance of senior players sets the direction for the youth. Winning against a team like New Zealand always matters.
New Zealand is without some key players. Still, his bowling is always challenging. Swing with the new ball, and discipline in the middle overs are his weapons. This will not be an easy tour for the Indian batsmen.
Both Virat and Rohit are players who thrive under pressure. Records are not the goal for them, but the result. The needs of the team come first. Records keep getting created automatically.
Everyone's eyes will be on Virat's continuity. There will be a wait for Rohit's big innings. The record will be seen getting closer with every run. This series can write more stories than statistics.
The India-New Zealand ODI series is special because history is at stake, not just win-loss. If conditions and form continue, cricket fans may see big names being left behind in the coming days.