In a captivating moment after the stumps on Day 1 (Thursday, October 24) of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand in Pune, Team India’s star batter Virat Kohli was spotted engaging in some extra batting practice. The former Indian captain, who didn’t get a chance to bat on the opening day as India finished at 16/1, made use of the time by facing some throwdowns to get into his rhythm for the next day’s action. However, it wasn’t just his batting that caught the crowd’s attention.
Kohli, known for his passion and dedication to the sport, also entertained the fans with a light-hearted moment as he performed a funny walk across the field during his practice session. The moment was caught on camera, and one of his fan clubs quickly shared the video on the popular social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), where it garnered significant attention and laughter from fans across the globe.
A Quiet Start for Kohli and India
The first day of the second Test saw New Zealand winning the toss and opting to bat first. India’s bowlers, led by Washington Sundar, put up a stunning performance, bundling the Blackcaps out for 259 runs. Sundar’s seven-wicket haul was the highlight of the day, as he single-handedly dismantled New Zealand’s middle and lower order. Despite the strong batting efforts from New Zealand’s Devon Conway, who scored 76, and Rachin Ravindra, who contributed 65, the Kiwis struggled to build substantial partnerships, allowing India to keep their total under 300.
As India came out to bat late in the day, they lost opener Yashasvi Jaiswal early, finishing the day at 16/1, trailing New Zealand by 243 runs. With Kohli not getting a chance to bat on Day 1, the Indian fans eagerly awaited his entry at the crease, which is expected to happen early on Day 2.
Virat Kohli’s Practice and Crowd Engagement
After the stumps were called, Virat Kohli stayed back for some additional batting practice. This routine is typical of the world-class batter, who leaves no stone unturned when it comes to perfecting his game. Kohli faced some throwdowns from the team’s support staff, working on his timing and technique under the floodlights. The crowd in Pune, who had waited all day to catch a glimpse of the batting maestro, were thrilled to see him in action, even if it was just during practice.
What followed was an unscripted moment of joy for the spectators. As Kohli walked back after his practice session, he suddenly broke into a playful, exaggerated walk, amusing the fans who had stayed to watch him. His spontaneous antics instantly lit up the mood, and the video of this funny walk quickly made its rounds on social media. The clip, shared by one of his fan clubs on X, went viral, with fans praising Kohli for his ability to mix serious cricket with a touch of fun.
One fan commented, “Only Virat can turn a practice session into a moment of pure entertainment,” while another added, “This is why we love him – always making us smile, on and off the field!”
India’s Challenge in the Second Test
India entered the second Test in Pune with their backs against the wall, as they trail New Zealand 0-1 in the three-match series. The Blackcaps had won the first Test in Kanpur convincingly, putting the hosts under pressure to level the series. With New Zealand’s modest first-innings total of 259, India will be looking to capitalize and build a significant lead when Kohli and the rest of the batting lineup take center stage on Day 2.
Virat Kohli, who has been in good form but without a century in recent months, will be determined to make an impact in this crucial game. His batting, along with the performances of other key players like Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, will be critical if India is to gain control of the match and push for a series-leveling victory.
Washington Sundar’s heroics with the ball have already put India in a strong position, but much will depend on how the Indian batters respond to the New Zealand bowling attack led by the experienced Tim Southee and rising star Matt Henry. India will also have to deal with the threat posed by spinners like Mitchell Santner, who will be looking to exploit the conditions in Pune.
New Zealand’s Key Performances
While Washington Sundar’s seven-wicket haul stole the show, New Zealand’s innings wasn’t without its highlights. Devon Conway continued his fine form with a solid knock of 76, while Rachin Ravindra provided much-needed support with his composed 65. The two batters shared a crucial partnership, ensuring that New Zealand posted a competitive total despite the regular fall of wickets.
However, the rest of New Zealand’s batting lineup struggled to find momentum, with Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Tom Blundell all falling cheaply. As the second day of the Test match approaches, New Zealand will hope that their bowlers can restrict India and prevent them from taking a commanding lead.
The Road Ahead
With India trailing by 243 runs and with nine wickets in hand, the match is evenly poised heading into Day 2. All eyes will be on Virat Kohli, who is expected to walk out to bat early in the day. Fans will be hoping that his light-hearted moment after stumps is a sign of his relaxed mindset and that he can translate that into a big score on the field.
As the battle between India and New Zealand continues to unfold, cricket lovers are in for a thrilling contest. The second Test promises to be a crucial one for both sides, with India fighting to stay alive in the series and New Zealand aiming to seal a series victory on Indian soil.
One thing is for sure—whether it’s Kohli’s batting or his fun antics off the field, the Indian superstar knows how to keep the fans entertained and invested in the game.
