During the third ODI between India and New Zealand, a light-hearted moment involving Virat Kohli quickly became the talking point of the match. Known for his intense competitiveness and expressive on-field presence, Kohli once again showed his humorous side.
As the game progressed at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, fans were treated not just to high-quality cricket but also to an entertaining exchange that soon went viral on social media.
After a long and demanding innings, New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell began his walk back to the pavilion. Kohli, positioned near the boundary rope, acknowledged Mitchell’s effort with applause before sharing a brief chat. What followed next brought smiles across the stadium—Kohli jokingly nudged Mitchell in a playful manner, as if escorting him off the field, turning a routine moment into a memorable one.
Virat Kohli applauding Daryl Mitchell for his incredible knockpic.twitter.com/peNji8EhIX
— RCB Xtra (@Rcb_Xtra) January 18, 2026
Daryl Mitchell’s Commanding Knock
Before the humorous exchange unfolded, Mitchell had already made a strong impact with the bat. The New Zealand all-rounder delivered a composed and authoritative innings, scoring 137 runs off 131 deliveries. His knock was studded with elegant strokeplay, including 15 boundaries and three towering sixes, as he anchored New Zealand’s innings under pressure.
Mitchell’s performance was a standout effort in what proved to be a challenging contest for the visitors. He showcased patience, shot selection, and resilience, holding one end together as wickets fell at the other. Eventually, his impressive stay at the crease came to an end when he was dismissed by Mohammed Siraj, but not before he had significantly boosted New Zealand’s total and earned respect from both teams.
Fans Celebrate the Spirit of the Game
The brief interaction between Kohli and Mitchell perfectly captured the spirit of modern cricket, where fierce competition coexists with mutual respect and camaraderie. The video clip of the incident spread rapidly online, with fans praising Kohli for his sportsmanship and sense of humor. Many saw it as a refreshing reminder that cricket is as much about enjoyment as it is about performance.
Such moments add personality to the game, strengthening the bond between players and supporters alike. While the match itself carried high stakes, Kohli’s playful act provided a lighter contrast, reinforcing why he remains one of the most loved figures in world cricket—someone who can balance intensity with warmth, and competition with genuine human connection.
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