Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill gave cricket fans an entertaining moment after the third India vs New Zealand ODI was abandoned due to rain in Hamilton on November 10. With no cricket possible at Seddon Park, the two Indian batters turned a routine handshake into a playful wrestling-style exchange, popularly described as a 'kushti' match.

A video of the interaction caught the attention of fans on social media, with many enjoying the light-hearted moment between the former India captain and his successor. The friendly exchange offered some entertainment on an otherwise disappointing day for spectators who had hoped to watch the third match of the series.

Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill's hilarious 'kushti' moment

The viral clip shows Kohli and Gill greeting each other after the rain-affected fixture. What began as a handshake soon developed into a mock wrestling contest, with the two players appearing to challenge each other in a friendly manner.

Their expressions and playful movements made the interaction particularly entertaining. Rather than a serious contest, the exchange appeared to be an example of the camaraderie within the Indian dressing room.

Kohli, one of India's most experienced players, has shared the field with Gill across formats over the years. Gill, meanwhile, has emerged as one of India's leading batters and has taken on greater leadership responsibilities.

The video quickly became a talking point among cricket followers, who appreciated seeing the two stars share a relaxed moment away from the pressure of international competition.

What's Virat Kohli Saying to Gill? 😅🔥

After the third ODI was washed out, Virat and Shubman Gill were spotted having some fun together. 😄

- And what is Gurnoor Brar doing? Whom is he bowing down to? 😂 pic.twitter.com/6oia0D4ix8

— Mukku (@Cric_Mukku) November 10, 2026

Why was the India vs New Zealand third ODI abandoned?

The third ODI between India and New Zealand was scheduled to take place at Seddon Park in Hamilton on November 10. However, persistent rain prevented the match from getting underway.

India had won the toss and elected to bowl first, but repeated weather delays and ground inspections failed to produce conditions suitable for play. Eventually, the officials abandoned the contest without a ball being bowled.

The washout meant India retained their 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series. The visitors had won the opening match in Auckland by five wickets before securing another victory in Wellington under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.

Shreyas Iyer to captain India in final two ODIs

India will now travel to Mount Maunganui for the remaining two matches, scheduled for November 13 and 15. Shreyas Iyer is set to lead the side in both fixtures, with Ishan Kishan appointed vice-captain.

The leadership change follows the team's workload management plans ahead of the two-match Test series against New Zealand, beginning November 19. Gill and several other members of the original ODI squad are expected to focus on preparations for the longer format.

While the rain in Hamilton denied fans the chance to watch another India-New Zealand contest, Kohli and Gill's playful 'kushti' exchange ensured the abandoned match still produced a memorable moment.