King Kohli is back: Virat's playful banter with team goes viral ahead of Australia ODIs

Virat Kohli is back in Indian colours for the much-anticipated ODI series against Australia, starting October 19. And while his return is big news in itself, it’s the energy and joy he’s bringing to the team that’s grabbing fans' attention online.

Viral clips from a practice session in Perth show Kohli in a cheerful mood, laughing and joking with teammates.

In one video, he’s seen sharing a light moment on the field with Arshdeep Singh, KL Rahul, Axar Patel, and Shubman Gill.

During the banter, Kohli was seen mimicking funny moves with Arshdeep Singh, teasing KL Rahul with playful gestures, and bursting into laughter alongside Axar Patel and Shubman Gill.

This ODI series marks Kohli’s return to the Indian side after his last outing in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on March 9 against New Zealand.

Now exclusively playing the ODI format for India, Kohli had earlier announced his retirement from T20Is after the T20 World Cup 2024, and from Tests following the Australia series in 2024-25.

Despite stepping back from two formats, Kohli remains a force in ODIs. With 14,181 runs in 302 matches at an astonishing average of 57.88, he is India’s second-highest run-scorer in the format. His record includes 51 centuries and 74 half-centuries.

After the three-match ODI series, India will take on Australia in a five-match T20I series starting October 29.