Why Virat Kohli Did Not Win Player of the Match Award During 1st ODI vs West Indies?

Virat Kohli once again proved why he is amongst the best ODI batsmen of all time with a superb hundred against West Indies during the first match of the three-match series at Thiruvananthapuram.

Kohli remained unbeaten on 139 off just 88 balls, easily the highest score from the match. Usually, such a breathtaking knock is enough for a player to be adjudged the Player of the Match.

However, Kohli did not win the Player of the Match award despite this knock, much to everyone's surprise. Virat Kohli POTM award looked imminent for the fans, however, it wasn't him on the day.

Why Virat Kohli Did Not Win POTM Award During 1st ODI?

Even though Virat Kohli played a blinder with the bat alongside captain Shubman Gill, it was the left-arm wristspinner Kuldeep Yadav who set it up with the ball during the first innings.
Kuldeep returned figures of 4-40 in 10 overs to help India restrict West Indies to a below-par total on this flat surface. It was Kuldeep's spell which proved to be decisive and eventually became the turning point of the IND vs WI 1st ODI.
Later, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill smashed brilliant hundreds to take India home. While these were highly entertaining knocks from two of the best ODI batsmen, Kuldeep's special spell cannot be forgotten.

Earlier during the match, Kuldeep Yadav turned around the game after West Indies had got off to a great start with a century opening partnership. It was Kuldeep who provided the first breakthrough as he removed John Campbell.

Later, he picked up three more wickets, which also included the big one of the centurion Justin Greaves. The left-armer was at a hat-trick at one point as West Indies batters found it hard to pick him from his hands. Kuldeep's variations kept WI batters in check and they were eventually 60-80 runs short, as accepted by the captain Shai Hope.

Virat Kohli Turns Back the Clock

Virat Kohli Player of the Match does not undermine the kind of innings that he played. The right-hander showed his full range and played with freedom, something that will please the Indian cricket team dressing room and the fans. At the same time, it will be a headache for the opposition as Kohli is trying to be aggressive alongside being consistent.

The right-hander struck 10 fours and 9 sixes during this innings, which shows his aggressive intent. This knock was a perfect example why Kohli is considered a GOAT of cricket. Even during the final stages of his career, he continues to be a massive threat for the opposition.