Photo via CricketAddictor

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli reject net bowlers' bat requests as hilarious scenes unfold

India’s star openers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli added a touch of humor to their pre-series preparations ahead of the ODI clash against New Zealand. During a practice session at Eden Park in Auckland, local net bowlers playfully requested a bat from Rohit, who politely declined.

Kohli then stepped in with a lighthearted bet, suggesting the bowler could take a bat from whichever player had more—prompting Rohit to laugh and walk away as the group erupted in amusement. The moment came as India gears up for a five-match ODI series, with the opener scheduled for November 4 at Eden Park before moving to Wellington, Hamilton, and Mount Maunganui.

Sharma arrives in New Zealand after a strong ODI series against the West Indies, where he scored 225 runs across three matches, including a century and a half-century. His last ODI series in New Zealand dates back to 2019, where he managed 169 runs in five games.

Meanwhile, Kohli enters the series as the world’s third-ranked ODI batter, having recently crossed the 15,000-run milestone during the West Indies series, joining an elite club alongside Sachin Tendulkar.

Up nextCricket· 2h ago

Bouncers to Rohit Sharma? New Zealand captain talks up India top-order challenge