[Watch] Virat Kohli responds to roaring Wankhede crowd on Day 2 of IND vs NZ 3rd Test 2024

Renowned batter Virat Kohli enjoys a significant fan following, which was on full display on Day 2 of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand on Saturday, November 2, at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

During New Zealand’s second innings, the crowd erupted with chants of “Virat Kohli.” While fielding at slips, the Delhi-born cricketer acknowledged their support by waving to the fans and placing his hand over his heart in appreciation.

Here’s a video of the moment:

The 35-year-old had a disappointing outing in the first innings, falling short by a yard at the non-striker's end while trying to complete a quick single. He was dismissed for just four runs off six balls. Overall, Kohli's performance in the series has been below par, with only 92 runs in five innings, including one half-century.

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India on top in the third Test against New Zealand

Ravindra Jadeja excelled with the ball for India, claiming five wickets to help dismiss the Black Caps for 235 runs in the first innings. The hosts concluded Day 1 at 86 for four. In the morning session of Day 2, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill ignited India’s comeback, putting together a 96-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

Pant scored 60 runs off 59 balls, while Gill narrowly missed out on a century, finishing with 90 runs off 146 balls. Towards the end, Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 38, as India posted 263 runs in their first innings, securing a crucial 28-run lead. Meanwhile, Ajaz Patel took five wickets for the Kiwis.

Akash Deep made an early breakthrough for India in the second innings by dismissing New Zealand captain Tom Latham for just one run. Devon Conway (22) and Will Young added 37 runs for the second wicket before Sundar took out the former.

Ravichandran Ashwin claimed his first wicket by getting rid of Rachin Ravindra. Jadeja then struck twice quickly, removing Daryl Mitchell (21) and Tom Blundell (4).

At the time of writing, the visitors were at 119 for five, holding a lead of 91 runs, with Young (41) and Glenn Phillips (14) at the crease.