Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir Share a Light Moment on Team Bus After ODI Victory

In a delightful moment captured on video, Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir were seen sharing laughter on the team bus after India's victory in the first ODI against New Zealand. As the team traveled to Wellington for the next match, fans were treated to a rare glimpse of camaraderie between the two cricketing stalwarts. Kohli's stellar performance in the match, scoring 74 runs, further highlighted his focus on ODIs following his retirement from T20I and Test formats. This interaction not only dispelled rumors of a rift between them but also showcased the positive atmosphere within the team as they prepare for the upcoming challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2026, 13:54 IST

A Joyful Journey to Wellington

Following India's triumph in the first ODI at Eden Park on November 4, star batter Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir were seen enjoying a light-hearted moment on the team bus as they headed to Auckland Airport and then to Wellington.

The Indian ODI squad, under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, departed from their hotel in the morning, making their way to Wellington for the upcoming second ODI set for November 7 at Sky Stadium. Fans gathered at Auckland Airport to greet the players, eagerly asking for autographs and selfies.

Viral Moment Between Kohli and Gambhir

As the players boarded the bus after leaving the hotel, Kohli and Gambhir, along with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, were seen sharing jokes and engaging in relaxed banter while getting comfortable in their seats.

A video that gained traction on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), showcased Kohli standing in the aisle dressed in team travel gear, a cap, and headphones around his neck, animatedly discussing something with Gambhir.

A Rare Display of Camaraderie

Kohli's expressive gestures and laughter seemed to bring smiles to Gambhir and Kotak, who joined in the jovial atmosphere. Although the specifics of the conversation were unclear, the video highlighted the warm and friendly environment within the team as they traveled.

Fans noted the rarity of such interactions between Kohli and Gambhir, who are known for their competitive spirits. The sight of Gambhir laughing was particularly surprising, as he is not often seen in such a light-hearted mood.

Kohli's Stellar Performance

Kohli, who celebrated his 38th birthday on Thursday, was instrumental in India's six-wicket victory over New Zealand, scoring an impressive 74 runs in the revised chase, giving India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Focused on ODIs Post Retirement

Since retiring from T20I and Test formats in 2024 and 2025, respectively, Kohli has concentrated solely on ODIs, aiming to extend his cricketing career until the 2027 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

Since his Test retirement, the 37-year-old has participated in every ODI series, showcasing his remarkable form and solidifying his role in India's middle order.

Impressive ODI Statistics

In his last 16 ODI innings since October 2025, Kohli has amassed 1002 runs, including four centuries and six fifties, boasting an impressive average of 77.07 and a strike rate of 115.17. This late-career resurgence underscores his commitment to the 50-over format.

Throughout his ODI career, Kohli has scored a total of 15,183 runs, featuring 55 centuries and 80 fifties, with an average of 58.84 across 318 matches.