Anushka Sharma and Vikas Kohli, Virat Kohli's wife and elder brother, arrived to witness his milestone 300th ODI.
However, the anticipated celebration morphed into a moment of collective disbelief, courtesy of a spectacular New Zealand fielding display.
Virat Kohli's innings was abruptly cut short at a mere 11 runs off 14 balls. Matt Henry's bowling and Glenn Phillips' athletic prowess combined to create a defining moment.
When Kohli attempted a powerful cut shot, Phillips, stationed at point, launched into a breathtaking dive. The result was a catch of stunning brilliance.
Replays revealed the full extent of Phillips' athleticism- a full-stretch, mid-air extension, snatching the ball with pinpoint accuracy. Kohli's visible astonishment mirrored the collective shock of the stadium.
India's batting woes compounded the disappointment. After losing the toss and being asked to bat, the top order faltered.
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Kohli all departed cheaply, leaving the innings reeling. The stadium's atmosphere, initially charged with excitement, shifted to a stunned silence.
It was a significant setback for the Indian team, overshadowing the celebratory aspect of Kohli's 300th ODI.
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