The upcoming matches for Virat Kohli, starting early in the year 2026, will relate only to India’s ODI series against New Zealand, following his recent appearances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and is expected to feature in very few domestic games before joining the national team for this white-ball campaign. The IPL 2026 season starts later in March, providing further opportunities for the RCB stalwart.
Virat Kohli has been in good touch in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, scoring 208 runs across two matches for Delhi, inclusive of a century. Dazzled with a match-winning knock ahead of leaving for national duties, signaled readiness for international return. This comes after Kohli took a break from international cricket, as he and Rohit Sharma prioritize ODIs over the 2027 World Cup cycle.
Virat Kohli Upcoming International Matches
In January 2026, India is scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against New Zealand, as Kohli makes his comeback onto the international scene. Kohli might play a key role in middle-order as he has a strong record in ODIs.
When Is Virat Kohli’s Next Match? Full Upcoming Match List
Domestic Schedule
Kohli may play one more Vijay Hazare Trophy match for Delhi on January 6, 2026, against Railways before the New Zealand series. Delhi’s group stage runs until early January, but national commitments take precedence. Post-series, focus shifts to IPL preparations.
IPL 2026 Outlook
The IPL 2026 begins March 26 and runs until May 31, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru as defending champions. Kohli, retained by RCB, aims to end his IPL trophy drought in this expanded 84-match edition. Expect high-stakes Bengaluru home games at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Performance Expectations
Kohli’s ODI average exceeds 58, with 50 centuries, making him pivotal against New Zealand’s pace attack. Recent domestic tons suggest peak form for chases and big scores. Fans anticipate fireworks in Vadodara’s batting-friendly conditions.
Historical Context
Kohli boasts a stellar record vs New Zealand in ODIs, averaging over 50 with multiple match-winning knocks. India holds a dominant home series edge, unbeaten in recent bilateral ODIs. This series tests preparations for tougher assignments like England away in July 2026.
Later 2026 Fixtures
- India vs Afghanistan ODIs: June 2026 (home venues TBD, likely Mumbai/Ahmedabad/Chennai)
- India vs England ODIs: July 14-19, 2026 (Birmingham, Cardiff, Lord’s)
- India vs West Indies ODIs: Sep-Oct 2026 (home)
Kohli eyes consistency across these, building towards 2027 ODI World Cup.
