Virat Kohli once again won hearts, not just with his batting but with a gracious display of sportsmanship, during Delhi’s Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Gujarat at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on Friday.
Turning out for Delhi, the former India captain looked in sublime touch and appeared set for another big score. Kohli started aggressively, taking on Gujarat’s bowlers with confidence and precision. However, against the run of play, his innings came to an end when left-arm spinner Vishal Jayswal delivered a sharp turning ball that drew Kohli out of his crease.
The wicketkeeper was quick to react, whipping off the bails as Kohli was dismissed for a well-compiled 77 off 61 balls. Although Gujarat briefly gained momentum after the breakthrough, a late collapse prevented them from fully capitalising, allowing Delhi to remain in contention.
A Memorable Post-Match Moment
After the match, Kohli was seen warmly interacting with 27-year-old Vishal Jayswal, the bowler who dismissed him. In a moment that quickly gained attention on social media, Kohli signed the match ball for the spinner and also posed for photographs, leaving Jayswal visibly delighted.
Sharing the moment on Instagram, Jayswal wrote:
“From watching him on TV to sharing the field. Grateful for moments like these.”
He also posted a video of the dismissal, describing the wicket as a moment he would cherish forever.
“From watching him dominate world cricket to sharing the same field and taking his wicket is something I never imagined,” Jayswal said. “Getting Virat Bhai’s wicket is a memory I will always treasure.”
Kohli’s Vijay Hazare Trophy Outing
Kohli featured in two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Delhi this season. He scored a commanding 131 against Andhra in his first game, followed by 77 against Gujarat, highlighting his strong form in domestic cricket.
The 37-year-old was spotted leaving Bengaluru on Friday evening and is unlikely to play the remaining Vijay Hazare Trophy matches. However, he may feature in one more game ahead of the ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11.
Rohit Sharma Also Returns
Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma also played the opening two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for his state team, scoring 155 and 0, before returning to Mumbai. Like Kohli, Rohit is not expected to take part in the remaining fixtures.
The India squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand is expected to be announced next week.
