Virat Kohli's Bow-and-Arrow Celebration Adds Diwali Touch to Stunning Catch

Virat Kohli takes a spectacular catch against New Zealand in Auckland and celebrates with a bow-and-arrow gesture ahead of Diwali.

By All India Story

4 Nov 2026, 2:22 PM IST 2 min read

Virat Kohli celebrates with a bow-and-arrow gesture after taking a stunning catch against New Zealand in Auckland. — Virat Kohli brings out a bow-and-arrow celebration after taking a spectacular catch in the first ODI against New Zealand.

Virat Kohli's bow-and-arrow celebration grabbed attention during India's first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland after the former India captain took a stunning catch to dismiss Nathan Smith. With Diwali approaching, Kohli's gesture added a festive touch to India's impressive bowling performance.

Fielding at second slip, Kohli reacted quickly when Smith edged a delivery from Anshul Kamboj behind. The Indian batter dived to his right and completed a sharp catch just inches above the ground, drawing attention for his athleticism and reflexes.

Clearly delighted with the effort, Kohli ran away before pretending to draw a bow and release an arrow. He followed it with a playful 'you can't see me' gesture, inspired by professional wrestling star John Cena.

Diwali Connection Adds Meaning to Kohli's Celebration

The celebration carried an additional cultural association with Diwali around the corner. The bow-and-arrow gesture brought to mind Lord Ram, whose traditional depiction includes a bow and arrow.

Kohli is known for his expressive celebrations on the field, and the moment quickly became a talking point during India's match against the Black Caps.

His catch also came at an important stage of the innings, as New Zealand struggled to build partnerships against India's disciplined bowling attack.

Indian Bowlers Put New Zealand Under Pressure

India's bowlers dominated proceedings in Auckland, reducing New Zealand to 131/8 shortly after the 31-over mark, according to the match update in the supplied report.

Anshul Kamboj and Arshdeep Singh claimed two wickets each, keeping the hosts under pressure. Kamboj made effective use of the conditions and also dismissed Mitchell Santner, who was bowled for four.

Arshdeep continued to trouble the New Zealand batting line-up, removing Kyle Jamieson as the wickets kept falling.

India's fielding effort further strengthened its position. Rohit Sharma also contributed with a sharp piece of fielding that resulted in a run-out.

With wickets arriving at regular intervals, New Zealand struggled to establish momentum. Kohli's spectacular catch and celebration became one of the memorable moments of India's strong start in the opening ODI.