Star India batterVirat Kohlisurprised fans on Friday by sharingtraining photos on Instagram, ending a nearthree-year gapsince his last such post. The images were uploaded just days before the opening ODI againstNew Zealandin Vadodara onJanuary 11.

Kohli sharedthree photographsfrom a training session at Kotambi Stadium—one showing him batting in the nets, another capturing fitness drills alongside teammates, and a third of him walking towards the ground with his kit bag. Notably, this marks the first time Kohli has posted training visuals since the2023 World Test Championship final.

For fans, the post was a refreshing change. In recent years, Kohli has largely limited his Instagram activity tobrand endorsements, family moments with Anushka Sharma, and posts celebrating major milestones such as India’sT20 World Cup triumph, theChampions Trophy win, andRoyal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL 2025 title.

The rare training update quickly drew attention, especially from supporters who have often expressed disappointment over Kohli’s reduced social media engagement. Once one of cricket’s most active online personalities, Kohli has consciously chosen to keep his digital presence minimal—making this New Year surprise all the more special.

Strong Form Ahead of ODI Series

The 36-year-old arrived in Vadodara earlier this week and began preparations immediately. He was greeted by large crowds at the airport, underlining his enduring popularity.

Kohli recently returned to theVijay Hazare Trophyafter nearly16 years, featuring in two matches in December. He impressed with scores of131 and 77, crossing the16,000-run mark in List A cricket—becoming the fastest player to do so and surpassing the record previously held bySachin Tendulkar.

His domestic form followed an excellent ODI series againstSouth Africa, where he amassed302 runs, including two centuries and a fifty, helping India clinch the series2–1.

Kohli will now look to carry that momentum into the home series against New Zealand. The ODI side will be led byShubman Gill, whileRohit Sharmais also set to return to international action.