Indian cricket team star Virat Kohli arrived in Kanpur on Tuesday ahead of the second Test against Bangladesh. As expected, a large crowd of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the cricket icon at his hotel. The hotel staff, too, lined up to greet the former India captain. While it’s not unusual for such a scene to unfold when top cricketers like Kohli are in town, these moments can sometimes make players uneasy.
Kohli faced a similar situation when he arrived at the Kanpur hotel. One of the staff members presented him with a bouquet, while another attempted to shake his hand. Responding humorously, Kohli said, “Sir, do hi haath hain” (Sir, I only have two hands), leaving the staff member momentarily taken aback before Kohli politely thanked everyone and moved on.
Kohli’s Recent Performance and Team Outlook
Virat Kohli's welcome at the Team Hotel in Kanpur 🥰❤️ pic.twitter.com/cq4ku5pK3C
— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) September 24, 2024
Kohli’s performance in the first Test against Bangladesh, held in Chennai, was less than stellar. He scored only 6 and 17 in the two innings, falling victim to Bangladesh pacer Hasan Mahmud in the first and spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the second. Despite Kohli’s underwhelming performance, India triumphed with a commanding 280-run win in the match.
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir, along with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, also reached Kanpur with the team. Gambhir’s tenure as head coach of the Test side began with a thumping victory in his very first match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Meanwhile, Pant announced his return to Test cricket in style, playing an impressive 109-run knock in the second innings.
His attacking yet composed approach posed significant challenges for the Bangladesh bowlers and stirred memories of his past brilliance. Pant also made a solid start in the first innings, scoring 39 off 52 deliveries before being dismissed by Hasan Mahmud.
Virat Kohli’s arrival in Kanpur ahead of the second Test against Bangladesh was met with the usual fanfare, but despite the warm reception, his recent form with the bat has been underwhelming. Scoring just 6 and 17 in the first Test, Kohli’s struggles contrasted sharply with India’s overall dominance, as the team secured a commanding 280-run victory.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir marked a successful debut in his new role, while wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant made an impactful return to Test cricket with a brilliant century, reigniting hopes for his continued success. With the second Test looming, all eyes are on Kohli and the team to maintain their winning momentum.
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