IND vs NZ 2026: Virat Kohli fans abuse makers of SG balls on social media after stalwart's error during New Zealand ODIs

Published - 19 Jan 2026, 12:28 IST | Updated - 19 Jan 2026, 13:03 IST

Social media has been set ablaze after India lost the three-match ODI series against New Zealand on Sunday, January 18. The decisive third ODI took place at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. New Zealand emerged victorious by 41 runs to take the series 2-1. This was the first ODI series win for the Kiwis on home soil.

Virat Kohli was the star of the show on Sunday, as he slammed a belligerent ton. However, despite his best efforts, the Men in Blue couldn't chase down the staggering target of 338.

A section of irate Kohli fans took social media abuse to the next level as they slammed the makers of the SG (Sanspareils Greenlands) ball following the series defeat. They blamed the ball for facilitating the misfield from the legendary cricketer.

Notably, in one of the overs, the ball travelled towards Kohli, who tried to pick up the ball in one motion but fumbled several times. The clip showcased Kohli’s dedication and commitment to the game as the former India skipper was upset and frustrated with himself for the fielding error.

A post shared by Sanspareils Greenlands (@sgcricketofficial)

The Indian top-order batter also kicked his leg in the air in anger, as he knew that he had the chance to stop a single.

Kohli continued his purple patch in ODI cricket during the series against the Kiwis. He was the highest run-getter for India, smashing 240 runs in three innings at an average of 80. Only Daryl Mitchell (352) scored more runs than him.

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In the first match, Kohli scored a fluent 93 off 91 balls at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. The 37-year-old missed out with the bat in the second ODI as he couldn't convert his start. The stalwart made 23 off 29 balls before being dismissed. In the third ODI, India believed a miracle could happen as long as he was at the crease. However, Kohli was dismissed by Kristian Clarke for a remarkable 108-ball 124.