The sweltering heat in Rajkot, India, took its toll on the players during the third ODI between India and Australia. However, Virat Kohli found a way to keep himself entertained and the fans engaged with his antics on the field. Australian batsman Steve Smith was struggling to cope with the heat in the middle of the innings. He took a drink break and had wet towels all around him. Even a chair was brought out for him and he underwent some treatment.
Marnus Labuschagne was standing on the side when Kohli seized the opportunity to tease him. Kohli came close to Labuschagne and danced hilariously in front of him. After that, he poked him as well before the two engaged in a conversation. Kohli’s antics brought a smile to the faces of the players and the fans alike. It was a welcome distraction from the intense heat and the pressure of the match.
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Smith didn’t last too long after the break. He was trapped lbw by Mohammed Siraj for 74 runs. The match was evenly poised at that point, with both teams evenly matched. Australia kept the scoring rate intact, while the Indian bowlers chipped away with regular wickets.
When GOATs take a break 🕺🫶#IndiaCricketKaNayaGhar #TeamIndia #IDFCFirstBankODITrophy #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/yQ8V0jvrj2
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) September 27, 2023
Virat Kohli is likely to open the innings in the ongoing third ODI against Australia in Rajkot. Shubman Gill has been released from the squad and Ishan Kishan has been ruled out due to illness. This makes way for the dream duo of Rohit Sharma and Kohli to open the batting.
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Kohli doesn’t have a great record as an opener in ODIs. He has played seven games as an opener and scored just 166 runs at an average of below 24. If he partners Rohit Sharma in the last game, he will be hoping to improve that record.
Regardless of Kohli’s batting position, his antics on the field during the third ODI were a welcome distraction from the heat and the pressure of the match. It showed that he is still enjoying his cricket and that he is always up for a bit of fun.
