Watch: Virat Kohli gears up for New Zealand ODI series with intense net session

Virat Kohli spent nearly two hours batting in the nets at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium as he stepped up preparations for India's upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.Virat Kohli is set to take part in the ODI series against New Zealand. Courtesy: PTINew Delhi,Oct 25, 2026 18:03 ISTVirat Kohli has stepped up preparations for India's upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, showcasing his trademark confidence and elegant strokeplay during an intense net session at the Cricket Club of India's Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai on Friday. The former India captain spent nearly two hours batting in the nets as he fine-tuned his game ahead of the five-match series.Kohli looked in good touch on a red-soil pitch as he faced both fast bowlers and spinners. The star batter was particularly impressive while driving through the covers, displaying the balance and timing that have made him one of the finest batters in ODI cricket. He also played assured defensive shots off the back foot and used his feet to take on the spinners.The session highlighted Kohli's focus as India prepare for a challenging assignment against the Black Caps. With the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on the horizon, the upcoming series will offer the veteran batter another opportunity to fine-tune his game and maintain his impressive standards in the 50-over format.Look who's back, hitting the nets! #ViratKohli is bringing the intensity ahead of the next challenge! #NZvIND #INDvNZ #TeamIndia https://t.co/wb8ZkdYVbC— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 25, 2026KOHLI IN OMINOUS FORMKohli heads into the New Zealand assignment after producing an impressive performance in India's three-match ODI series against the West Indies in September. He scored 168 runs across the series at an average of 84 and a strike rate of 155.55. In the opening ODI in Thiruvananthapuram, Kohli smashed an unbeaten 139 off just 88 deliveries to help India secure an emphatic eight-wicket victory. Captain Shubman Gill also starred with the bat, scoring 110 as India chased down the target comfortably.The innings saw Kohli cross the landmark of 15,000 ODI runs, becoming only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to achieve the milestone. His 55th ODI century further underlined his enduring class and ability to dominate opposition bowling attacks. Kohli's experience, composure and ability to accelerate during a chase will be valuable assets as India prepare to take on New Zealand. His latest net session in Mumbai suggests he has begun working towards the next assignment well in advance.India and New Zealand will contest five ODIs from November 4 to 15, 2026. The opening match is scheduled to be played in Auckland, followed by fixtures in Wellington and Hamilton. The final two matches will take place in Mount Maunganui.India are currently involved in a five-match T20I series against New Zealand and have taken a 2-0 lead, registering victories at Hagley Oval in Christchurch and in the second match. Kohli will be hoping to carry his form into the ODI leg of the tour as India continue their preparations for the 2027 World Cup.- Ends