Pune, October 24 The first day of the Pune Test witnessed thrilling action as New Zealand’s first innings wrapped up at 259 runs, largely due to Washington Sundar’s remarkable bowling performance, claiming seven wickets. By stumps, India had reached 16/1, but the day’s excitement didn’t end there. The post-match scene offered another moment for fans, as star batsman Virat Kohli returned to the field for an unexpected practice session, drawing applause from the crowd.

Sundar’s Bowling Brilliance

Washington Sundar was the highlight of India’s bowling attack, dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup with skillful precision. His seven-wicket haul brought New Zealand’s innings to a close, giving India an early upper hand in the match. Sundar’s efforts showcased the young spinner’s growth and resilience, and his commanding performance will be crucial as the match unfolds.

Kohli’s Post-Stumps Practice Session

In a surprising post-stumps moment, Virat Kohli returned to the field, pads on and bat in hand, showing his dedication to the game. The crowd erupted with excitement as Kohli began practicing alone, and the cameras captured the moment that reflected his commitment. This wasn’t a typical net session, as Kohli walked onto the pitch without a team setup, driven by his own determination.

As the cameras zoomed in on him, Kohli broke into laughter, sharing a lighthearted moment that resonated with the spectators. Shortly after, Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir joined him, the two sharing a laugh before Gambhir left Kohli to his solo practice. The sight of Kohli practicing late into the evening stirred admiration among fans, emphasizing his dedication even off the scoreboard.

Kohli’s Unique Demeanor and Playful Interaction with Akashdeep

Kohli’s unique demeanor after stumps brought an unexpected lightness to the day’s intense gameplay. Earlier, when Rohit Sharma was dismissed for zero in the first innings, Kohli, who was next in line to bat at number four, had already prepared to step in. However, as Akashdeep Padmanathan was being considered for a night-watchman role, Kohli and Akash shared a playful moment on the sidelines, showcasing camaraderie and focus in equal measure.

Conclusion: Anticipation Builds for Day 2

With India at 16/1, the team will look to build on Sundar’s bowling success and Kohli’s dedication, which has further fueled expectations for the remainder of the Test. Day two promises continued excitement as fans eagerly await Kohli’s return to the crease, hoping to see his dedication translate into yet another memorable innings for Team India.