India, Oct. 18 -- Virat Kohli might be in the dusk of his international career, but that has taken nothing away from the appeal and fan following he commands. Two scenes outside the Optus Stadium exemplified Virat Kohli's enduring appeal in the lead-up to the first ODI in Perth. The first of these scenes featured India's number 18 signing caps, shirts, and phone cases for a gathered crowd. The second captured a young couple overwhelmed with emotion after securing an autograph, embracing as though they had achieved a significant milestone.

The incidents occurred on the eve of the opening ODI, where the return of Kohli and Rohit Sharma transformed routine practice sessions into substantial fan gatherings. Multiple video clips from outside ...