‘When his time is up…’: Brendan McCullum’s ‘legacy’ remark on Virat Kohli ahead of England ODI series
Virat Kohli is all set to begin what could be his final ODI tour of England when India take on the hosts in the first ODI at Edgbaston on Tuesday. The match also marks a major personal milestone for the batting great, who is set to play his 300th ODI for India.Ahead of the start of the series, England head coach Brendon McCullum paid tribute to Kohli, describing him as one of cricket’s greatest ambassadors whose legacy will outlive his playing career.McCullum, who shared the Royal Challengers Bengaluru dressing room with Kohli during the IPL, reflected on the Indian star’s relentless competitiveness and global influence.“I had the privilege of playing with him for a year at RCB. I shared the dressing room with him, got to know him and thoroughly enjoyed his company. He is a highly competitive person and leaves nothing out on the field. He plays with all his heart and is a tremendous cricketer,” McCullum said in a video shared by ECB on X, ahead of the first ODI.“He has inspired generations of people to love cricket. He is one of those players who transcends the sport. He has become a true rock star not just in cricket or India but across the world and across different sports. When his time is up, his legacy will live on long after he plays the game,” he added. However, McCullum finished with a smile, adding: “I still wish he didn’t run in this series! But we wish him well. He’s a fierce competitor and an absolute champion.”
Kohli returns to his favorite format
After missing the Afghanistan ODI, Kohli returns to India’s ODI set-up for the three-match series against England. The 37-year-old has an impressive record in England, scoring 581 runs in 16 ODIs at an average of 38.73, including one century and four fifties, with a top score of 107. Kohli is also on the verge of another major milestone. He needs 68 more runs to overtake Rahul Dravid to become India’s highest run-scorer in ODIs in England.
India eye fresh start after T20I disappointment
India head into the ODI series looking to bounce back after suffering a 4-0 defeat in the previous T20I series. With senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returning, the visitors will be hoping to kick-start their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
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Share an opinionThe first ODI will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham and the match is scheduled to start at 15:30 IST (11:00 local time).
- 2nd ODI: July 16 – Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (5.30pm IST)
- 3rd ODI: July 19 – Lord’s, London (3.30 pm IST)