Virat Kohli, batting for India, added a touch of entertainment to the first One‑Day International against New Zealand in Auckland on Wednesday, 5 Nov 2026. While fielding, he mimicked professional wrestler John Cena’s signature “you can’t see me” hand gesture, directing it at New Zealand’s all‑rounder Glenn Phillips. The playful act drew attention from spectators and commentators alike, highlighting Kohli’s light‑hearted side on the field.
The gesture came during New Zealand’s innings, a period when India were defending a modest total. Kohli’s fielding contribution was not limited to the pose; he secured two crucial catches, dismissing New Zealand’s middle‑order batsmen Nathan Smith and Kyle Jamieson. Both wickets helped stem the flow of runs and added pressure on the visitors.
Kohli’s performance with the glove complemented his batting role in the match, where he continued to anchor India’s chase. While the focus often rests on his run‑making, his fielding efforts, including the two catches, underscored his all‑round value to the side in limited‑overs cricket.
The “you can’t see me” gesture, a hallmark of WWE star John Cena, has become a popular cultural reference. Kohli’s use of it in a cricketing context sparked a wave of social‑media posts, with fans sharing video clips of the moment. The light‑hearted display resonated with a younger audience familiar with both cricket and pop‑culture.
New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips, the target of the gesture, continued his innings without further incident, while the Indian side maintained composure. The match proceeded with both teams exchanging wickets, and the game’s outcome remained undecided at the time of the gesture.
Background notes indicate that such on‑field antics are rare in high‑profile international fixtures, where players typically maintain a serious demeanor. However, Kohli’s history of occasional banter and expressive celebrations suggests a willingness to blend sport with entertainment when the situation permits.
Looking ahead, officials anticipate further confirmations and statements regarding any disciplinary or promotional implications of the gesture before upcoming fixtures. The incident is expected to be referenced in pre‑match briefings as both teams prepare for the remainder of the series.