The Indian cricket team has begun its preparations in New Zealand ahead of the much-anticipated 2026 ODI series, with veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli attracting most of the attention. The experienced batting duo was spotted training in the nets as India stepped up its preparations for the upcoming 50-over assignments.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the team’s training session, highlighting the intensity with which both batters approached their practice. Their presence also created considerable excitement among local Indian cricket supporters, who gathered around the ground to catch a glimpse of the two former India captains.
As Rohit and Kohli walked towards the practice wickets carrying their kit bags, fans lined the perimeter fences and cheered enthusiastically. Several supporters recorded the moment on their mobile phones, reflecting the popularity both players continue to enjoy among cricket followers across the world.
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Both batters looked comfortable during their respective net sessions. Rohit displayed his familiar attacking approach, playing elegant front-foot drives through extra cover and powerful pull shots against the local net bowlers.
Kohli, meanwhile, worked on his timing and stroke execution, producing crisp cover drives and lofted shots with his trademark bat swing. The two senior players also shared a friendly fist bump before finishing their practice and walking away to loud cheers from the crowd.
They’re back 😍😍
#TeamIndia | @imVkohli | @ImRo45 https://t.co/pmFz19G9DU
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 30, 2026
The upcoming series presents another opportunity for India’s experienced batting pair to make an impact in challenging conditions. Both players have considerable experience playing ODI cricket in New Zealand and have produced several memorable performances against the Black Caps.
Virat Kohli has scored 596 runs in 13 ODI innings in New Zealand at an average of nearly 50. His highest score in the country is 123 off 111 deliveries, which he recorded at McLean Park in Napier during India’s 2014 tour. He has also registered one century and four half-centuries on Kiwi soil.
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Across his overall ODI career against New Zealand, Kohli has accumulated 1,897 runs in 36 innings at an impressive average of 57.48.
Rohit has scored 437 runs in 13 ODI innings in New Zealand at an average of 36.41, including four half-centuries. His highest score in the country is 87 off 96 balls at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui during India’s 4-1 series victory in 2019. Overall, Rohit has collected 1,134 runs in 32 ODI innings against New Zealand, averaging 36.58, with two centuries and six fifties.
