Team India’s practice in Vadodara saw a light moment. Virat Kohli turned entertainer. He playfully mimicked pacer Arshdeep Singh’s bowling run-up. Teammates, including Rohit Sharma, shared a laugh. This happened before the 1st ODI against New Zealand. The incident, reported on January 10, 2026, highlights a relaxed mood in the Indian camp, fresh off a successful ODI series in South Africa.
The vibe feels good. India readies for a three-match series. Vadodara’s BCA Stadium, Kotambi, hosts its first men’s international match. So, big day for the venue. Kohli, just back, arrived in a cheerful state. His recent form explains some of that confidence.
The Lighter Side of Training
During a net session, Arshdeep Singh bowled. Then Kohli slipped into “entertainer mode.” He imitated Arshdeep’s distinctive run-up. Exaggerated strides and arm movements made it comical. And the act brought instant laughter. It cut through the intense practice. The Times of India shared the video: “Virat Kohli turns entertainer in training, mimics Arshdeep Singh; Rohit Sharma reacts – WATCH.”
Rohit Sharma was there, watching. He’d batted with Kohli for 90 minutes. Against pacers, spinners, throwdown specialists. Rohit saw the mimicry. His reaction was clear amusement. He joined the laughter. No direct quote from Rohit on the incident. His smile said enough. And it showed the team’s easy camaraderie. The Hindustan Times called it a “goofball” moment. It’s just good fun, nothing else.
Kohli’s Strong Form Fuels Confidence
This light-hearted mood comes from a strong place. Kohli’s batting has been on point. He had an “impressive showing” in the recent ODI series in South Africa. India won that series. In the domestic Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored 77 and 131. That’s solid rhythm. He hit the ball fluently in Vadodara nets, even with variable bounce.
Kohli is a batting mainstay. He’s focused on the New Zealand series. But he keeps the team atmosphere loose. It’s important to have that balance. A relaxed senior player can do wonders for team morale. And Kohli’s doing just that, apparently.
Vadodara Camp: First International & Team Status
The team arrived in Vadodara earlier this week. They started preparations at BCA Stadium, Kotambi. Kohli came in a “relaxed and cheerful mood.” He shared high-fives. Cracked jokes. Laughed with teammates. All throughout training. Shubman Gill, the ODI captain for this series, also trained. He’s back from a toe injury. He missed the last two T20Is against South Africa. Gill completed his drills without issue.
The camp feels settled. It’s upbeat. Key players like Kohli, Rohit, and Gill are all involved. No reports of any controversy. No disciplinary action. Or new injuries. The mimicry clip simply shows good team spirit. It’s not a strategic news event. It’s just a funny moment. The team remains focused on the upcoming series. And they’re ready for the matches.
Soureesh Datta 
Sagnik Banerjee 
Ishaan Singh