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Virat Kohli’s dismissal at the close of Day 3 in India’s Test match against New Zealand was a dramatic moment that quickly triggered an emotional reaction among fans both in the stands and online. Kohli’s innings, which culminated in a solid 70 runs, was marked by a 136-run partnership with Sarfaraz Khan, helping India steady their second innings after a rocky start. Yet, just as the crowd began to anticipate his century, Kohli fell to a delivery from Glenn Phillips, caught behind by Tom Blundell. His departure left India at 231/3, still trailing New Zealand’s hefty first-innings lead of 356. For Kohli’s fans and supporters of Indian cricket, this moment hit hard, considering his position as a key figure in India’s attempt to turn the game around.
With Kohli’s wicket on the last ball of the day, fans were vocal in their disappointment. Social media lit up with reactions, many expressing frustration over the timing of his dismissal. Fans at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru—where Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL team also plays—were particularly vocal. His connection to this venue only amplified the crowd’s anticipation of a big knock and the resultant disappointment. Some fans took to Twitter and Instagram, lamenting the sudden end to what seemed like a promising revival for India’s innings. Memes, comments, and emotional posts poured in as fans shared their heartbreak and disappointment over what could have been a potential game-changing century for Kohli.
This dismissal also stirred the cricket community, where analysts and former players commented on the critical nature of Kohli’s departure. Cricket fans, particularly those loyal to Kohli, noted that his experience could have provided much-needed stability for India on Day 4. Yet, his effort did not go unnoticed, as many praised Kohli’s resilience in scoring 70 runs in a partnership with Sarfaraz Khan, a partnership that ultimately kept India afloat amidst New Zealand’s first-innings lead.
Kohli’s dismissal also drew a candid response from Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who visibly displayed his disappointment in the dugout. As one of India’s most seasoned batsmen, Kohli’s absence adds pressure on the remaining lineup to bridge the deficit. Sharma, who was also dismissed earlier for 52, recognized the importance of their shared responsibility to put up a fight. For Indian cricket fans, seeing Kohli’s and Sharma’s dismissals was a double blow that left them anxious about India’s chances as they move into Day 4.
The match dynamics have been heavily influenced by New Zealand’s stellar performance, especially with Rachin Ravindra’s impressive 134 runs and Tim Southee’s explosive 65, which allowed the Black Caps to amass a challenging total of 402. India’s bowlers, including Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, worked diligently, but Kohli and Sharma’s dismissals reflect India’s struggle against New Zealand’s diverse attack. As a result, the pressure on India’s lower-middle order is significant, with hopes now resting on players like Sarfaraz Khan and the tail-enders to stage a comeback. Kohli’s performance, though not the highest, underscored his importance to the team and the emotional weight he carries among fans.
As Day 4 approaches, there’s an air of uncertainty but also hope among Indian supporters. The reactions from the crowd and online echo a sentiment familiar in cricket: the fervor, disappointment, and unwavering support of fans who rally behind their players in both success and setbacks.