Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes Virat Kohli has a slightly better chance than Rohit Sharma of scoring a century in the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand. The series will be played from November 4 to November 15, 2026, across Auckland, Mount Maunganui, Hamilton and Wellington. Pujara based his prediction on the different batting responsibilities of the two experienced Indian stars, particularly the challenges posed by New Zealand’s conditions.

While Rohit generally looks to make an aggressive start during the powerplay, Kohli’s position at number three allows him to settle into an innings and take on the anchor role. Speaking on JioStar, Cheteshwar Pujara explained that New Zealand’s conditions could alter Rohit’s usual approach at the top of the order. However, he felt Kohli’s batting position gives him a slight advantage when it comes to converting a good start into a hundred.

“The way Rohit bats, he has a role of providing good starts in the powerplay. In New Zealand, maybe that role changes, so he could go for a century. But for Virat, the chances are slightly higher because he bats at number three. His game is more about playing the anchor role. So, for a batsman coming in at number three, scoring a century in the ODI format becomes a bit easier. The opener’s role is also defined, but in New Zealand conditions, that changes a bit. So, I feel Virat has more chances of scoring a hundred in New Zealand than Rohit,” Cheteshwar Pujara said.

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Both Kohli and Rohit will enter the ODI series after impressive performances against the West Indies. Kohli scored 168 runs across three innings, with his standout effort coming in the opening match, where he smashed an unbeaten 139 off 88 deliveries while chasing a target of 296.

Rohit was equally impressive, finishing the series with 225 runs in three innings at an average of 75.00. The former India captain registered a century, with his highest score being 101, and maintained a strike rate above 115. Their recent performances underline the threat they pose to New Zealand’s bowling attack. However, adapting to the conditions and making the most of their respective batting positions could prove decisive in determining who gets closer to a century.

Apart from comparing Kohli and Rohit’s chances of scoring a hundred, Pujara also shared his prediction for the overall ODI series. He believes New Zealand could have a slight advantage because India are expected to use different groups of players across the five matches.

India will field one group for the first three ODIs before another set of players takes over for the final two encounters. The rotation is also significant because the teams are scheduled to begin a Test match in Wellington on November 19. Pujara backed India to perform well in the opening three matches but admitted that the final two games could present a tougher challenge. He also highlighted New Zealand’s unpredictable weather, suggesting that rain could lead to at least one match being abandoned.

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“Two-all. In the first three matches, one team is playing, and then, in the last two matches, another India team is going to play. So, I think New Zealand have a slight advantage because you aren’t playing the same team in all five matches. I’m still backing the India team in the first three matches, as I feel they will do well. The last two matches could be a bit of a challenge, but it will be a hard-fought series. And it rains in New Zealand, so probably one match will be a washout,” Cheteshwar Pujara said.

With both Kohli and Rohit in good touch, their performances will be among the major talking points as India begin their ODI assignment in New Zealand.