Indian cricket celebrity Virat Kohli is synonymous along with his audacious batting feats and exuberant on-field antics that followers relish. Whether or not he’s rallying the crowds to boost the decibels or performing playful imitations of his teammates, Kohli’s vibrant character by no means fails to entertain. Throughout India‘s last group-stage encounter with New Zealand within the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai, Kohli as soon as once more stole the highlight with a pleasant gesture that left followers chuckling.
Virat Kohli playful gesture of touching Axar Patel’s ft
In a second that rapidly captured the eye of followers, Kohli playfully touched the ft of Indian spinner Axar Patel. This occurred after Axar dismissed New Zealand’s top-scorer, Kane Williamson, turning the forty first over right into a memorable episode throughout New Zealand’s pursuit of India’s goal.
After Williamson scored a disciplined 81 off 120 deliveries, he was lured into an bold shot off Axar’s crafty supply, in the end resulting in a simple stumping by wicketkeeper KL Rahul. As Axar celebrated this significant breakthrough, Kohli joined him with a humorous show of respect by bowing down and playfully touching Axar’s ft. Taken without warning, Axar tried to dodge the playful salute, leading to a lightweight hearted change between the 2 earlier than they seamlessly returned to their fielding duties.
Right here’s the video:
Kohli touching Axar Patel’s ft after he bought Williamson out 😭#Kohli #AxarPatel #INDvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/mJmgQ95Y15
— Tarun Lulla (@ayotarun) March 2, 2025
Additionally WATCH: Axar Patel dents New Zealand’s chase by eradicating Kane Williamson within the Champions Trophy 2025
Turning the tide: A match-defining wicket
Williamson’s dismissal was pivotal. Following his exit, New Zealand’s chase wobbled regardless of a brisk salvo from Mitchell Santner, who added a fast 28 runs from 31 balls. Nonetheless, the remainder of the line-up crumbled beneath the relentless strain from India’s spin duo. Varun Chakravarthy‘s harmful spell (5/42) alongside Kuldeep Yadav‘s supporting efficiency (2/56) effectively dismantled the tail, anchoring a commanding 44-run victory for India. Axar concluded his spell with a cheap 1 for 32 in his allotted 10 overs, additional cementing his contribution.
India to tackle Australia within the semifinal
With this victory, India not solely sealed their prime spot in Group A but in addition booked a tantalizing semi-final conflict in opposition to Australia scheduled for Tuesday. But, amidst the cricketing prowess on show, it was Kohli’s whimsical gesture that emerged as one of many match’s most cherished highlights. It was one other testomony to his enduring charisma and talent to infuse enjoyable into the sport, a lot to the delight of followers.
Kohli’s legacy: Extra than simply cricket
This isn’t the primary time Kohli has showcased his fun-loving facet throughout a recreation. Identified for his on-field antics and infectious vitality, he typically retains each teammates and followers entertained. From mimicking teammates to participating with spectators, Kohli ensures that cricket stays as a lot about pleasure as it’s about competitors.
Throughout this match, Kohli additionally displayed his lighter facet by teasing Shreyas Iyer over a fielding mishap and even performing Cristiano Ronaldo’s well-known “SIU” celebration close to the boundary line. These moments underline why Kohli is adored not only for his cricketing prowess but in addition for his potential to attach with followers on a private degree.