Out of the Box: ODI legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were honored by the Baroda Cricket Association during India’s first ODI against New Zealand on Sunday, January 11. At the Kotambi Stadium, where the first men’s ODI was being played, both legends were presented with bouquets during the innings as a mark of respect.
This small ceremony managed to capture the attention of cricket fans because of its unique and playful manner. In the presence of ICC President Jay Shah and BCCI Chief Mithun Manhas, the Baroda Cricket Association arranged for a cabinet with life-size stickers of Rohit and Kohli. They were placed inside the cabinet and taken out when their names were called during the innings.
Fans burst into laughter and joked that it was an unboxing ceremony for Rohit and Kohli. The Indian senior pair also understood the joke and couldn’t hold back their laughter while receiving bouquets. They came out of the closet and signed their life-size photographs.
Why were Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli honored?
The India vs. New Zealand ODI was Kottambi’s first men’s 50-over match. More than 35,000 fans thronged the stadium to see their favorite stars. Rohit and Kohli, who are in the twilight of their playing careers, received a rousing welcome upon their arrival in the city.
Centers like Kottambi don’t often get the opportunity to host ODI matches, and the organizers may not have wanted to miss the opportunity to honor the legends who have redefined ODI batting over the past decade and a half.
Meanwhile, India won the toss and elected to bowl first on a slow pitch in Vadodara on Sunday. After struggling against Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls’ 100-plus opening partnership, India bounced back and managed to restrict New Zealand to 300/8 in 50 overs. In a volatile game, Daryl Mitchell batted exceptionally well, helping the Kiwis reach a respectable total on a slow pitch.
Rohit, Kohli chants at Kotambi
Chants of Rohit, Rohit, and Kohli echoed throughout the Kotambi Stadium from the start of the match. Whenever the ball reached either of these two superstars, the entire stadium erupted in excitement.
Speaking of the batting, Rohit Sharma opened the innings for the hosts, but he couldn’t play a long innings. He was dropped by Kyle Jamieson at mid-off, which yielded good bounce. Rohit hit some brilliant shots (3 fours and 2 sixes) before being dismissed.
After Rohit Sharma’s dismissal in the 9th over, Virat Kohli came to the crease. The former Indian captain began his innings with two superb boundaries off Zachary Foulkes.
Virat Kohli, on 52, is standing at the crease with captain Shubman Gill. He hit six superb boundaries in his innings.