MUMBAI: Indian batting star Virat Kohli has stepped up his preparations for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, spending nearly two hours batting in the nets at the Cricket Club of India’s Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
Kohli’s training session drew attention after footage of him practising with the white ball circulated on social media. The 37-year-old appeared focused as he worked on his batting ahead of India’s five-match ODI series, scheduled to begin in Auckland on November 4.
The session comes as Kohli prepares for his next international assignment in the 50-over format. Having retired from Test cricket and T20 internationals, he now concentrates on ODIs for India, making preparation between assignments particularly important.
Kohli works against pace and spin
During the session at Brabourne Stadium, Kohli batted on a red-soil pitch and faced both fast bowlers and spinners. Reports described him as fluent through the off side, with his cover drives and timing drawing attention.
He also worked on defensive shots off the back foot and used his feet against spin. The extended net session offered him an opportunity to sharpen his technique and batting rhythm before travelling for the New Zealand tour.
Footage shared by broadcaster Star Sports on social media further fuelled interest among fans, many of whom are eager to see the senior batter return to action.
Strong performance against West Indies
Kohli heads into the New Zealand assignment after an impressive ODI series against the West Indies in September. He scored 168 runs across the three matches at an average of 84, according to reports.
His standout performance came in the opening ODI in Thiruvananthapuram, where he struck an unbeaten 139 off 88 deliveries as India secured an eight-wicket victory. India captain Shubman Gill also contributed a century in the match.
During that innings, Kohli crossed 15,000 runs in ODI cricket, becoming the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to reach the milestone. He also registered his 55th ODI century, adding to his record in the format.
The New Zealand series will provide another opportunity for Kohli to build on that form against a competitive opposition.
New Zealand series begins on November 4
India are scheduled to play five ODIs against New Zealand from November 4 to 15, 2026. The opening match will take place in Auckland, followed by matches in Wellington and Hamilton. The final two games are scheduled in Mount Maunganui.
The series is also part of India’s preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. Kohli’s experience and record in the format could be important as the team builds towards the tournament.
India’s selectors have included Kohli in the ODI squad for the New Zealand tour. Shubman Gill is set to lead the side in the first three matches, while Shreyas Iyer is named captain for the final two ODIs, according to the squad announcement.
With the series approaching, Kohli’s training session signals that his preparations are under way. His performance in New Zealand will be closely watched as India look to maintain their momentum in the 50-over format.