Indian cricketers gathered at MS Dhoni’s Ranchi residence as the team is gearing up for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa.
The meet-up has become a tradition now. Whenever the squad plays in Dhoni’s hometown, they meet at his house. This time it brought a lively and positive vibe to the group, helping them mentally reset after the recent Test losses. Early snippets from the gathering suggested a focused, recharged team ready to approach the white-ball format with renewed intent.
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Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant arriving at Dhoni’s house
Virat Kohli was among the most noticeable arrivals, marking his comeback to the ODI squad. His inclusion is set to strengthen India’s batting lineup as they attempt to bounce back from the difficult Test outing. With the first ODI scheduled for November 30 at the JSCA International Stadium, the team has a chance to begin afresh in conditions where they previously performed well during their 2022 ODI visit. Rohit Sharma’s return also promises to restore leadership balance and tactical clarity.
Rishabh Pant reached there shortly after, drawing attention following a disappointing Test series. Filling in as stand-in captain during the second Test in Guwahati after Shubman Gill injured his neck, Pant managed only 49 runs across four innings. His shot selection was heavily criticised, leading him to apologise to fans and admit the team “didn’t play good enough cricket” while promising to regroup. Now back in the ODI squad, Pant has the opportunity to move past the Test setback. His last ODI was in August 2024, and with Gill unavailable, he may shoulder greater responsibility in the middle order.
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Ruturaj Gaikwad was also present, returning to the ODI side after strong domestic form. His addition strengthens the top-order options, and with both Pant and Gaikwad keen to make their mark, the team benefits from a blend of experience and new energy.
The team’s gathering in Ranchi reflected a collective push to reset and move forward. With senior players back, youngsters eager to contribute, and a format switch offering a clean slate, India hopes to open the ODI series on a positive note and regain momentum ahead of an important white-ball phase.
MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in car
The moment that truly lit up social media was MS Dhoni personally driving Virat Kohli home after the meeting. A short clip of Dhoni at the wheel, with Kohli beside him waving to fans lining the streets, spread rapidly across platforms. The visual stirred deep nostalgia, bringing back memories of the era when the duo dominated world cricket together. Fans celebrated it as the “moment of the year,” cherishing the enduring bond between the two icons.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma later kicked off an intense training session in Ranchi as India’s preparations intensified for the three-match ODI series against South Africa. Both were seen working hard in the nets, just days before the next 50-over assignment. Young talents Tilak Varma and Ruturaj Gaikwad also joined the session, highlighting India’s refreshed approach following the 0-2 Test defeat to the Proteas. The upcoming ODIs mark the highly anticipated return of Rohit and Kohli to international cricket after they were rested for the Test series.
