Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill produced a memorable batting performance in the first ODI against the West Indies, guiding India to a commanding eight-wicket victory in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27. The win gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, but their 151-run partnership was equally notable for the chemistry they displayed at the crease.

Following the match, Kohli opened up about his relationship with Gill and explained how their relaxed friendship has developed over the years. Speaking in a video shared by the BCCI on social media, the former India captain revealed that he has known Gill since the youngster first became part of the national team.

Kohli said their relationship has always been friendly and natural, something he believes is particularly important now that Gill has taken over a leadership role in the Indian side. Kohli, who spent several years leading India, now sees himself as one of the senior members of the team.

ALSO READ: Mohammad Kaif on Virat Kohli’s Retirement Calls After Stunning ODI Comeback

“I’ve known him from the time since he came into the team. I’ve always shared a very free-flowing and fun-filled camaraderie with him. At the end of the day, you make a conscious effort. Now he is in a leadership position; I have been in that position for a long time, and now I am a senior player,” Virat Kohli said.

The veteran batter also highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive dressing-room environment. According to Kohli, when senior players and leaders remain relaxed, it can help younger members of the squad deal with pressure more comfortably.

He explained that smiling, laughing and enjoying the moment can make even high-pressure matches feel less intimidating for players who are still establishing themselves at the international level. Kohli and Gill’s partnership in the series opener was their second 150-plus stand in ODIs. Their biggest partnership remains the remarkable 189-run stand against Sri Lanka during the 2023 ODI World Cup in Mumbai.

Virat Kohli also revealed that the pair rarely discuss cricket while batting together. Their familiarity allows them to communicate naturally and talk about things away from the game while remaining focused on their individual roles. “When you bat with a player like that, we hardly even talk about the match. Idhar udhar ki baate ho rahi hoti hain, because he knows what to do and I know what to do,” Kohli said.

ALSO READ: Prasidh Krishna Reflects on His ODI Growth After Strong Run in 2026

The former India captain also reflected on his approach to international cricket after becoming only the second batter to reach 15,000 ODI runs, following Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli stressed that longevity comes from prioritising team success rather than chasing personal statistics.

“You can only play for that long if you are looking to make the team win. You can’t play that long for numbers,” he said. India will now travel to Guwahati for the second ODI against West Indies, scheduled for September 30 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.