Kohli Honors Henry’s Historic Spell With Signed Jersey Gesture After New Zealand’s Commanding Win

New Zealand delivered a commanding performance against India in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, securing a massive 244-run victory on Friday. Beyond the result, one of the match’s most memorable moments unfolded off the field, capturing the spirit of sportsmanship.

India batting mainstay Virat Kohli showed class by presenting New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry with a signed jersey after the game. The gesture acknowledged Henry’s exceptional bowling performance, which was instrumental in collapsing India’s batting lineup.

Matt Henry’s Sensational Opening Over Shakes India’s Top Order

Chasing a demanding target of 334, India’s innings began disastrously. Henry’s remarkable new-ball spell immediately put the visitors under pressure, as he claimed three wickets in his opening over without conceding a run.

Henry opened by dismissing Rohit Sharma on the first ball, with the Indian opener edging to the slip cordon. He followed up with a brilliant delivery to bowl Kohli for a four-ball duck, and completed the over by trapping stand-in captain Shreyas Iyer leg before wicket. India slumped to 0 for 3—the first time in their ODI history they had lost their opening three wickets without scoring.

New Zealand had earlier posted 333, anchored by Will Young’s impressive 125. Tim Seifert contributed a valuable 58, helping the hosts build a commanding total.

Henry continued his dominance after the early burst, finishing with career-best ODI figures of 6 for 27 from 9.4 overs. India never gained meaningful traction in the chase. Ishan Kishan (27), Axar Patel (21), and Naman Dhir (21) offered brief resistance, but the remainder of the batting order failed to contribute significantly.

The visitors were bowled out for 89 in 26.4 overs, suffering a 244-run defeat—their second-largest loss by runs in ODI history and their heaviest defeat of the 21st century.

Kohli’s Gesture Earns Widespread Admiration Following India’s Defeat

Despite being one of Henry’s early dismissals, Kohli made a point of acknowledging the New Zealand seamer’s outstanding performance after the match. Footage shared by the Blackcaps’ official social media channels showed the two players interacting outside the dressing rooms. Kohli exchanged smiles and a handshake with Henry before handing over a signed jersey.

The pair also shared a brief conversation about match conditions, discussing how the pitch quickened under the lights. Kohli jokingly noted that the setting sun had affected his vision during the opening over.

Kohli’s gesture underscored the mutual respect between international cricketers. Despite a disappointing personal outing and a heavy team loss, the Indian star took time to recognize a remarkable bowling performance.

Watch the interaction below:

Virat Kohli’s special gesture for Matt Henry after the 4th ODI #NZvsIND @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/1Ea8kM84Dq

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 14, 2026

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