The electrifying atmosphere at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune didn’t fade even after the conclusion of Day 1 of the second Test between India and New Zealand. A massive crowd remained glued to their seats, not for the usual post-match analysis but to witness a spectacle of their own: Virat Kohli’s practice session.
The star batter, who had endured a difficult run with the bat in recent matches, took to the nets with renewed focus and determination. His dedication and meticulous approach to fine-tuning his technique captivated the spectators, who cheered him on, transforming a routine practice session into a memorable experience.
Kohli’s extended batting session came after a thrilling day of cricket, dominated by the Indian bowlers. Washington Sundar delivered a career-best performance, claiming seven wickets, while his spin partner Ravichandran Ashwin chipped in with three to bowl out New Zealand for 259.
Sundar, brought into the side in place of Kuldeep Yadav after India’s disappointing eight-wicket loss in the first Test in Bengaluru, justified his selection with a stellar display, particularly against New Zealand’s middle and lower order. He finished the day with impressive figures of 7 for 59.
The Indian batsmen, however, didn’t have the best of starts, losing captain Rohit Sharma early to a Tim Southee delivery. Rohit’s dismissal for a nine-ball duck left India at 16 for 1. However, Shubman Gill, unbeaten on 10, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, not out on six at stumps, ensured India ended the day on a positive note, setting up an exciting battle for the next day.
Kohli’s practice session, however, remained the talk of the town, a testament to his enduring popularity and the passion of Indian cricket fans, who were eager to see their captain regain his form and lead India to victory in the series.