Virat Kohli’s comeback series has started on a challenging note. Two consecutive ducks in the first two ODIs against Australia were far from what his fans had hoped for. However, Kohli’s sharp instincts in the field during the second ODI in Adelaide drew attention and highlighted his cricketing acumen.

As India defended 265, cameras captured an interesting moment between Kohli and Australian batter Travis Head, who was on 28 at the time. Indian fans still remember Head’s explosive 137 off 120 in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, which shattered India’s dream of winning the trophy for the third time.

Aware of Head’s potential to dominate the game quickly, Kohli approached the Australian opener, placed an arm around his shoulder, and said something. Moments later, Head miscued a shot off Harshit Rana and was caught by Kohli himself. Though the exact words remain unknown, the incident highlighted Kohli’s psychological sharpness on the field.

Kohli Equals Yuvraj Singh in Most Ducks for India in ODIs

Despite the fielding highlight, India lost the match by 2 wickets, with Australia sealing the series 2-0. For the first time in his career, Kohli scored two back-to-back ducks in ODI cricket. In 304 matches, he has now recorded 18 ducks, equalling Yuvraj Singh, who played 301 ODIs to achieve the same.

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Virat Kohli's strategic distraction! Travis Head was out next ball. Master of the mind games. 😉

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— Umesh patel (@umesh_pate26949) October 24, 2025

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While Kohli and Yuvraj are joint-4th on India’s list of most ducks in ODIs, the 3rd position belongs to Anil Kumble with 18 ducks in 269 matches. The 2nd spot is held by Javagal Srinath with 19 ducks in 229 matches, while the record is held by Sachin Tendulkar, who scored 20 ducks in 463 ODIs.

Though India has already lost the 3-match series 2-0, the Men in Blue will look to restore pride in the third ODI. The final match of the series will be played on October 25 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Fans will be keen to see if India makes any changes to the squad and whether Kohli can regain his form with the bat while continuing his brilliance in the field.