Kembali
Virat Kohli once again entertained cricket fans with a memorable moment on the field during the 1st ODI between India and New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. The former Indian captain pulled off a stunning one-handed catch to provide his team with an important breakthrough before celebrating in a rather familiar fashion.
Kohli recreated Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana’s famous bow-and-arrow celebration after completing the catch. The gesture, accompanied by a big smile, quickly caught the attention of his teammates and fans, adding an entertaining moment to the match.
The incident took place in the 26th over of New Zealand’s innings when Anshul Kamboj was bowling. Nathan Smith attempted to play the delivery but ended up offering a catch towards Kohli. The Indian batter quickly moved to his right, dived and completed a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Smith.
It was an important breakthrough for India as New Zealand continued to struggle against the visitors’ bowling attack. After completing the catch, Kohli got back on his feet and recreated Sri Lankan spinner Theekshana’s trademark bow-and-arrow celebration towards the Indian dugout. His cheerful reaction added an entertaining touch to the dismissal.
🔴 VIRAT KOHLI IS BACK WITH HIS ICONIC DHANUSH CELEBRATION! 🥹🏹
– Finally, our day is made! The GOAT has brought back his iconic celebration for us! 😭❤️ pic.twitter.com/sayD7M3Ahh
— Sam (@cricsam02) November 4, 2026
Earlier, Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bowl first under overcast conditions at Eden Park. The decision worked in India’s favour as the pacers exploited the helpful conditions to put the hosts under pressure. Arshdeep Singh led the attack with an impressive four-wicket haul, while Gurnoor Brar picked up three wickets. Kamboj also contributed with the ball as New Zealand struggled to build partnerships.
Glenn Phillips top-scored for the hosts with 38 runs, while Blair Tickner contributed 34. A late 39-run partnership for the 10th wicket helped New Zealand reach 185 before being bowled out in 40.2 overs. India’s chase got off to a difficult start as Kyle Jamieson dismissed returning opener Rohit Sharma for a six-ball duck in the first over. However, Kohli and Gill came together to steady the innings and take responsibility for the chase. Eventually India won the rain-afftected contest by 5 wickets with Kohli smashing a brilliant knock of 74 runs.