Team India's Dominant Wins on Holi: Virat Kohli’s Bat Shines Bright

As India celebrates the vibrant festival of Holi on March 14, cricket fans have another reason to rejoice—Team India’s stellar record on this auspicious day. Over the past 15 years, India has played two international matches on Holi and emerged victorious in both, coincidentally against the West Indies. Adding to the excitement, Virat Kohli played a crucial role in both matches, delivering impactful performances with the bat. Let’s take a look at how Team India fared in these memorable encounters.

India’s Victory Against West Indies in the 2011 World Cup

During the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, India faced West Indies in a group-stage match on March 20, the day of Holi. Played in Chennai, the match saw Indian captain MS Dhoni winning the toss and opting to bat first. However, the team got off to a shaky start, losing Sachin Tendulkar in the very first over, followed by Gautam Gambhir (22) in the ninth over.

Virat Kohli then stepped up, forging a crucial 122-run partnership with Yuvraj Singh. Kohli contributed a steady 59 off 76 balls, while Yuvraj’s brilliant century (113) helped India set a target of 268 runs. In response, the West Indies batting lineup crumbled, getting bowled out for just 188 runs. Zaheer Khan led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Ashwin and Yuvraj claimed two each. Harbhajan Singh and Suresh Raina also chipped in with a wicket apiece. India secured a commanding 80-run victory, with Yuvraj Singh earning the Player of the Match award for his all-round performance.

Another Holi Clash Against West Indies in the 2015 World Cup

Four years later, India once again played a World Cup match on Holi, this time on March 6, 2015, against the same opposition. The match, held at the WACA in Australia, saw West Indies opting to bat first after winning the toss. However, their batting lineup struggled against India’s formidable pace attack. Mohammad Shami (3 wickets) and Umesh Yadav (2 wickets) dismantled the West Indies batting order, limiting them to just 182 runs. Ravindra Jadeja also took two wickets, while Ashwin and Mohit Sharma chipped in with one each.

Although the target seemed modest, India faced a tough challenge while chasing. The team lost six wickets, but once again, Virat Kohli played a stabilizing role with a 33-run knock off 36 balls. However, it was MS Dhoni who guided India to victory with a composed unbeaten 45, supported by Ashwin (16*). India successfully chased down the target in 39.1 overs, securing another Holi victory. Shami was named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling performance.

Holi Brings Luck for Team India

With two dominant wins on Holi, both against the West Indies in World Cups, Team India has turned the festival of colors into a day of cricketing triumphs. Virat Kohli’s contributions in both matches highlight his ability to perform under pressure, while the team’s overall balance and determination ensured memorable victories. Fans will be hoping for more such festive wins in the future!