The Indian cricket team showcased a relaxed and confident environment during their training session on Friday, January 9, 2026, ahead of the series opener against New Zealand. Senior batter Virat Kohli took center stage, not just for his batting drills, but for a light-hearted moment where he was seen playfully mimicking the distinctive bowling run-up of teammate Arshdeep Singh. Virat Kohli's 'Miniature' Version Spotted! Star Indian Cricketer Seen Providing Autograph to Kid Looking Like His Younger Self Ahead of IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2026 (See Pic).

The interaction, captured on video at the Kotambi Stadium, shows Kohli exaggerating the left-arm pacer’s sprint and delivery stride. The impromptu performance drew immediate laughter from Rohit Sharma and other teammates nearby, quickly becoming a trending topic across social media platforms.

Virat Kohli Hilariously Mimics Arshdeep Singh

Building Team Camaraderie

The "goofball" moment highlights the high morale within the Indian camp as they begin their 2026 international calendar. Kohli, often known for his intense on-field persona, frequently uses humor during practice to ease the pressure of high-stakes series.

Witnesses noted that the session was filled with high-fives and banter, suggesting a settled team dynamic under the leadership of Shubman Gill. Rohit Sharma, seen smiling in the background of the viral clip, appeared to thoroughly enjoy the senior batter’s antics as the team transitioned from warm-ups to technical drills.

Virat Kohli’s "Purple Patch" Continues

Beyond the humor, Kohli enters the New Zealand series in formidable form. He was recently named Player of the Series in the December ODI leg against South Africa, where he amassed 302 runs at an average of 151.

His preparation has been rigorous; he recently featured in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi—his first appearance in the tournament in 15 years—where he recorded scores of 131 and 77. Kohli currently sits at second place in the ICC ODI batting rankings, closely trailing Rohit Sharma.

Focus on the First ODI

The three-match ODI series is set to begin on Sunday, January 11, in Vadodara. The match marks a significant occasion for the city, which is hosting its first men's international match at the new BCA facility. Ro-Ko Reloaded! India's Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Undergo Intensive Preparations Ahead of IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2026 (Watch Video).

India’s squad for the series sees the return of Mohammed Siraj and Shreyas Iyer, while Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have been rested to manage their workloads. Following the opener in Vadodara, the series will move to Rajkot on January 14 and conclude in Indore on January 18.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 10, 2026 04:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).