Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma 'Walk Out of Cupboard' During Unique Felicitation Ceremony by Baroda Cricket During IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2026 (Watch Video)

Indian cricket stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were formally honoured by the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) today, 11 January 2026, during the mid-innings break of the first One Day International (ODI) between India and New Zealand. The felicitation, held at the newly inaugurated Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, garnered significant attention for its unconventional and light-hearted execution, marking a memorable occasion for both the players and the historic venue. Virat Kohli Becomes Quickest To Complete 28000 International Runs, Ace India Batter Achieves Feat During IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2026

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Honoured

A Unique 'Out of Cuboard' Felicitation

The ceremony, attended by notable figures including ICC President Jay Shah and BCCI President Mithun Manhas, saw Kohli and Sharma celebrated in a rather unique fashion. Instead of a traditional presentation, the duo was asked to step inside a specially designed 'cupboard' or 'closet' adorned with life-size stickers of themselves. As their names were announced, the doors of the cupboard were theatrically opened, revealing the players to a roaring crowd. Following their "unveiling," both cricketers signed their large-scale photographs, creating a lasting memento for the stadium.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Walk Out of Cupboard

Kotambi Stadium's Historic Debut

The event held additional significance as the ODI between India and New Zealand marked a landmark moment for Kotambi Stadium, hosting its first-ever men's 50-over international match. A crowd of nearly 35,000 spectators packed the venue, eager to witness top-tier international cricket and welcome the senior Indian duo. The return of international cricket to Vadodara after a 15-year hiatus further amplified the celebratory atmosphere, with organisers keen to make the most of the opportunity to honour two of India's most influential cricketers.   Virat Kohli Brings Out 'Snake Charmer' Celebration After Glenn Phillips' Dismissal In IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2026 (Watch Video).

Acknowledging Enduring Contributions

The felicitation served as a tribute to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's immense contributions to Indian cricket over the past decade and a half. Both players have been instrumental in shaping India's dominance in the ODI format, and their presence continues to draw massive enthusiasm from fans across the country. The ceremony acknowledged their enduring achievements and leadership, particularly as they are widely considered to be in the final phase of their illustrious careers.

On the field, India won the toss and elected to bowl first on the Vadodara surface. New Zealand posted a challenging total of 300/8, with half-centuries from Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, and Daryl Mitchell. India's bowlers, including Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna, each claimed two wickets. The felicitation provided a moment of reflection and celebration amidst the competitive action of the match.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2026 07:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).