Auckland: Virat Kohli is reportedly facing a challenging preparation session ahead of India’s five-match One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand, with a young Indian fast bowler troubling the senior batter during practice in the nets.

Kohli appeared frustrated while facing the rookie pacer during a training session ahead of the opening ODI. The episode has drawn attention as India prepare for a demanding overseas assignment, with the senior batter expected to play a key role in the team’s plans.

The reported net-session incident comes as Kohli and Rohit Sharma return to ODI action following India’s recent series against the West Indies. Both experienced batters are preparing for the New Zealand tour, which also forms part of India’s build-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The report’s description of Kohli’s reaction is based on observations from the practice session. It does not, by itself, indicate a problem with his form or fitness.

Kohli faces young Indian pacer during practice

The reported contest between Kohli and the inexperienced fast bowler became a talking point ahead of the first ODI. Facing different bowling styles and adjusting to pace and bounce are important elements of preparation before an overseas series.

Net sessions allow batters to work on their technique, timing and shot selection against bowlers who can replicate the challenges they may encounter during matches.

For a player with Kohli’s experience, practice also provides an opportunity to identify areas that need attention before competitive cricket begins. A difficult spell in the nets is not necessarily a reflection of how a batter will perform in a match.

The identity of the young pacer and the detailed circumstances of the reported exchanges should be treated cautiously unless confirmed through an official team statement or further footage.

Kohli and Rohit return to nets ahead of New Zealand series

Kohli and Rohit have resumed training ahead of the five-match ODI series, which begins in Auckland on November 4.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the two senior batters practising in the nets, accompanied by the caption, “They’re back”.

The session underlined their preparations for the upcoming assignment, which will offer both players another opportunity to build rhythm in the 50-over format.

Kohli scored 168 runs in three innings during India’s recent ODI series against the West Indies. His most notable contribution came in the opening match, when he scored an unbeaten 139 off 88 deliveries to help India chase a target of 296.

Rohit has also enjoyed a productive run in ODIs during 2026. He scored 604 runs in 12 innings at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 104.67, including two centuries and two half-centuries.

Their experience and recent performances will be important as India take on New Zealand in conditions that can offer different challenges to visiting batters.

India prepare for five-match ODI assignment

The opening match of the series will be played at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4. The remaining matches are scheduled for Wellington on November 7, Hamilton on November 10 and Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15.

The series provides India with five opportunities to assess combinations and strengthen their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Shubman Gill will lead India in the first three ODIs, while Shreyas Iyer is scheduled to captain the team in the final two matches.

The squad has also undergone a change following the injury-related withdrawal of fast bowler Prasidh Krishna. He was ruled out after failing to secure fitness clearance while recovering from a hamstring injury.

The selectors subsequently added Auqib Nabi to the squad for the first three matches. Nabi, who was initially named for the fourth and fifth ODIs, impressed in the recent India A match against New Zealand A, taking six wickets across two innings.

New Zealand series important for World Cup preparations

With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, India’s performances in the coming months will be closely watched. The New Zealand series is particularly relevant for the team’s senior players as they continue to feature in the 50-over format.

Kohli remains one of India’s most experienced ODI batters and enters the series after a productive performance against the West Indies. Rohit’s recent run-scoring record also gives India an experienced opening option.

The conditions in New Zealand will test the batting unit, particularly against seam bowling and movement. The team’s preparation sessions are therefore important for building confidence and adjusting to local conditions.

While the reported exchange between Kohli and the young pacer has attracted attention, the main focus will be on how the senior batter translates his practice work into performances during the series.

India begin their campaign on November 4, with the five-match contest offering an important test ahead of the next global 50-over tournament.