In the ODI, or 50 overs, format, certain moments are frequently defined by the best matches between batters and bowlers. One such intriguing match to see before of the eagerly anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 final is between Mitchell Santner, an all-rounder and left-arm spinner from New Zealand, and India’s star batsman Virat Kohli.
Over the years, it has been fascinating to watch their on-field clash because they have different styles and approaches to the game. Interestingly, despite his prior difficulties against left-arm spin bowlers, Virat Kohli has an outstanding record against Mitchell Santner in one-day internationals.
After facing 259 deliveries from Santner in ODIs, Virat Kohli amassed 180 runs at a strike rate of 69.49 and an average of 60.00.
While his strike rate implies a cautious and pertinent perspective against the left-arm spinner, Kohli’s average suggests that he has been quite consistent in playing against Mitchell Santner. Santner has dismissed Kohli three times, indicating that the New Zealand spinner has had several opportunities to put him through difficulties.
As India and New Zealand is poised to face off in final encounter in ICC Champions Trophy 2025, this duel remains a significant fight to watch, with considerable expectation around.
Kohli, who is renowned for his ability to play and control spin conditions, can make advantage of his superb footwork and accurate shot selection. However, the Indian batting mainstay has been held in check by Santner’s versatility, accuracy, and ability to extract turns. As per, while Kohli has made a decent average, his scoring rate is lower than his usual ODI norms, showing that Santner has managed to hold him down effectively.
Santner has silenced Kohli by bowling outside of his range of strokes.
Mitchell Santner’s ability to contain batters and confuse them with their shots is one of his advantages. Kohli has been unable to score runs at will because of his ability to extract turn and keep a tight line and length. Virat has been dismissed in the past because the left-arm spinner frequently bowls wider to him, forcing him to reach for deliveries outside off-stump.
The Kiwi spinner has effectively limited Kohli’s scoring rate, even though he has scored runs against Santner without experiencing any significant difficulties. This implies that their conflict is less about complete dominance by one player and more about strategy and patience.
India
