NEW DELHI: The two standout performers in the recently concluded three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand were Virat Kohli and Daryl Mitchell.

The New Zealand batter emerged as Team India's new nemesis, amassing 352 runs in the series, including two centuries and a fifty, to earn the Player of the Series award in New Zealand's maiden ODI series triumph on Indian soil.

Kohli, too, was in sublime form and waged a lone battle for India in the third ODI while chasing a daunting target of 338. He played a magnificent knock of 124 off 108 balls, keeping New Zealand on the edge until his dismissal in the 46th over.

Kohli reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI batting rankings last week for the first time since July 2021, with Mitchell breathing down his neck in second place, separated by just a single rating point. Kohli currently has 785 rating points, while Mitchell is on 784.

Kohli's return to the number one position came under threat after Mitchell struck a century in the second ODI and the former India captain endured a rare failure. However, Kohli is likely to retain the top ranking after responding with a century in the series decider.

King Kohli's heart-warming gesture

What stood out after New Zealand created history at the Holkar Stadium in Indore was Kohli's heartfelt gesture of gifting his jersey during the post-match presentation. A video of the moment soon went viral on social media, with fans lavishing praise on the Indian batter for his gracious act.