Matches Virat Kohli Should Play (and Leave) Before World Cup 2019 - By Tournament

India's Tour of New Zealand - 5 ODI's, 3 T20I's

England-like conditions are more likely to be encountered in New Zealand, as compared to Australia.

The New Zealand tour would be the shortest of the scheduled tours India would participate in during this phase. With only 5 ODI's and 3 T20I's, it won't be a bad idea to have Virat in both squads.

He can then pick and choose the games he wants to play and the ones he wants to leave out. New Zealand is slightly cooler than Australia, and that is one reason this tour can help Virat and his team prepare for the World Cup.

This is the last overseas tour India would play before the World Cup. A challenging opposition like New Zealand, last World Cup's runners-up, would be the ideal challenge India would be looking forward to just months before the World Cup.

Even a 2-5 ODI series loss in New Zealand just before the 2003 World Cup helped India's preparations by testing their technique and temperament.