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Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli Arrive in Vadodara Amid Fan Frenzy for NZ ODI Series

Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill and the New Zealand team arrived in Vadodara, receiving enthusiastic welcomes from fans at the airport. Later, Virat Kohli's arrival created a chaotic scene as a massive crowd gathered, requiring security intervention for his safe exit. The three-match ODI series begins on January 11 at the BCA Stadium, with Gill looking to regain form after his omission from the T20 World Cup squad. New Zealand will be without their key batsman Kane Williamson for the series.

Key Points: Gill, Kohli Arrive in Vadodara for India vs New Zealand ODI Series

  • Shubman Gill arrives for first int'l series post T20 WC snub
  • Virat Kohli causes chaotic scenes at Vadodara airport
  • New Zealand team also lands, surprised by crowd
  • First ODI of 3-match series begins Jan 11 at BCA Stadium
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IND vs NZ: Shubman Gill and New Zealand team arrives in Vadodara ahead of 1st ODI

Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli greeted by massive crowds in Vadodara ahead of the ODI series against New Zealand. Full details on the fan frenzy and series preview.

IND vs NZ: Shubman Gill and New Zealand team arrives in Vadodara ahead of 1st ODI
"The stalwart eventually needed security assistance to reach his car safely. - Report on Virat Kohli's arrival"

Vadodara, Jan 7

Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill landed at Vadodara Airport on Wednesday ahead of the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on January 11. The arrival created a buzz in the city as along with the Indian skipper, the New Zealand team also reached the town on the same day.

Gill received a warm welcome from fans who were present to catch a glimpse of their captain at the airport. The 26-year-old Indian batter also greeted the supporters with a smile.

The Blackcaps, too, were greeted with loud chants as they stepped out of the terminal. Some New Zealand players looked shocked by the size of the crowd and even recorded videos of the moment.

In the afternoon, Virat Kohli drew massive attention upon arriving at Vadodara Airport. A large crowd gathered to welcome the chase master, with chants of "Kohli, Kohli" echoing across the airport. Despite strict security, the situation turned chaotic when Kohli exited the terminal, as fans rushed to catch a glimpse of him. The stalwart eventually needed security assistance to reach his car safely.

India and New Zealand will play the first match of the three-match series at the BCA Stadium, Kotambi. A full house is expected as fans line up to watch their favourite stars in action.

This series will be Gill's first international outing after being sidelined from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 squad. Gill has a good record against the Blackcaps, having scored 623 runs in 12 matches. He has also hit two centuries and two half-centuries.

Gill has not played an ODI match since the Australia tour last year, where he struggled with form. The Indian opener failed to cross the 30-run mark in three outings. As he returns to the 50-over format, Gill will now hope to regain form against a New Zealand team that will be without their talisman Kane Williamson.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The scenes at the airport! 😂 The Kiwi players recording videos of our crazy fans is so wholesome. We love our cricket stars like family. Hope they enjoy the hospitality and we get a great series.
V
Vikram M
Honestly, the chaos for Kohli is a bit concerning. Security needs to be better managed. It's wonderful to show love, but player safety is paramount. Hope the stadium arrangements are tighter.
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Rohit P
Gill's record against NZ is solid. 623 runs! Missing the T20 WC must have hurt, but this ODI series is perfect for him to bounce back. Williamson's absence is a big plus for our bowlers too.
S
Sarah B
Visiting from the UK and the passion here is incredible! The article captures the excitement so well. Looking forward to watching the match. Best of luck to both teams for a fair contest.
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Karthik V
Full house expected in Vadodara! The BCA stadium is a good venue. Hope Gill finds his form quickly. We need a stable opening partnership, especially with big tournaments coming up. Jai Hind!

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