“Tough to replicate what he does” - Shubman Gill hails Virat Kohli’s performance in 1st ODI vs NZ

Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill has heaped praise on the talismanic No.3 batter Virat Kohli, who scored a match-winning 93-run knock off 91 balls in the first ODI against New Zealand, propelling India to a four-wicket win in Vadodara.

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Speaking in the post-match presentation ceremony, Gill has stated that it’s very important to stay in the present, adding that it always feels great to chip in the chase. Notably, Gill scored 56 runs off 71 balls with three fours and two sixes. 

"Always feels great to chip, especially when you're chasing. Staying in the present is most important, especially for athletes. That's what I try to do," Gill said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"At the moment, Kohli's making batting look easy, it's tough to start on these pitches. Tough to replicate what he does. Hope he keeps piling on runs," he added.

Additionally, Gill also talked about the team's bowling combinations and the decision-making around squad rotation, given the limited number of ODIs. Interestingly, Arshdeep Singh was excluded from the playing XI, which raised the eyebrows of many.

"Arshdeep did well last series, (Mohammed) Siraj wasn't there, we want to keep rotating as there aren't that many ODIs," he said.

Also, Gill disclosed an update on all-rounder Washington Sundar, who could bowl only five overs before leaving the field mid-way through New Zealand’s innings. 

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"Washington has a side strain, will go for a scan after the match," he concluded.

Batting first, New Zealand posted 300/8 in 50 overs, thanks to Daryl Mitchell's 84-run knock off 71 balls. In response, Virat Kohli's 93 off 91 propelled India to a four-wicket win with one over to spare. With this win, India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The action shifts to Rajkot for the second ODI, starting on Wednesday, January 14.

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