‘Bhabhi Bol!’: The Virat Kohli Prank That Welcomed Harshit Rana to the Inner Circle

'Bhabhi bol': Rana recalls how Kohli pulled his leg after meeting Anushka - Watch

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The roar of the crowd has faded, the confetti has settled, but the stories from India’s triumphant 2025 ICC Champions Trophy campaign are just beginning to surface. One of the most endearing tales comes not from the middle of the pitch, but from the jubilant chaos of the post-match celebrations. It’s a story that perfectly captures the human side of cricket, the bond between teammates, and the unique way legends like Virat Kohli welcome the next generation into the fold.

The star of this anecdote? Young speedster Harshit Rana, who found himself on the receiving end of a classic Kohli prank during his first-ever meeting with Anushka Sharma. And the punchline? Two simple, unforgettable words: “Bhabhi bol!“

The ‘Bhabhi Bol!’ Moment That Broke the Ice

Picture the scene: a euphoric Indian dressing room after clinching the Champions Trophy title. Amidst the champagne sprays and bear hugs, the 22-year-old Rana, still pinching himself at being part of such a historic win, was introduced to Anushka Sharma for the very first time .

Overwhelmed and respectful, Rana addressed her with the formal “Ma’am.” It was a polite, almost shy gesture from a young player in the presence of a superstar couple. But Virat Kohli, ever the master of the light-hearted moment, wasn’t having it. He immediately pulled his new teammate aside with a playful yet firm correction: “Ma’am kyu bol raha hai? Bhabhi bol inko!” (“Why are you calling her ‘Ma’am’? Tell her ‘Bhabhi’!”) .

The story, recounted by Rana himself, has since gone viral, not just for its humor but for what it represents. It was a small, personal initiation ritual that instantly made Rana feel less like a newcomer and more like family.

Harshit Rana Virat Kohli: A New Generation Meets a Legend

This interaction between Harshit Rana and Virat Kohli is far more than a funny locker room story. It’s a snapshot of a crucial transition period in Indian cricket. Kohli, the former captain and a colossal figure in the sport, is now in a mentor role for a wave of exciting young talent like Rana, who is seen as a key part of India’s future plans across all formats .

Rana’s journey to the national team has been one of hard work and perseverance. His inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad was a reward for his consistent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL. To be welcomed so warmly by a player of Kohli’s stature must have been an immense confidence booster for the young pacer. It signaled that he belonged, that he was now a trusted member of the elite group.

Why This Simple Prank Matters

In the high-pressure world of international cricket, team chemistry is everything. A cohesive unit that trusts and supports each other will always outperform a collection of individual stars. Kohli’s “Bhabhi” prank is a masterclass in building that essential camaraderie.

Here’s why this moment is so significant:

  • It Breaks Down Barriers: It instantly dissolved any formality or nervousness Rana might have felt around the senior players.
  • It Shows Leadership: True leadership isn’t just about tactics; it’s about making your teammates comfortable and valued. Kohli demonstrated this perfectly.
  • It Humanizes Superstars: It reminds fans that behind the fierce competitor on the field is a man with a great sense of humor and a big heart for his team.

This kind of environment is what allows young players to express themselves freely on the field, knowing they have the full support of their senior colleagues.

The Culture of the Indian Dressing Room

The Indian cricket team has long been known for its strong, familial atmosphere. From the days of Sourav Ganguly’s fearless leadership to MS Dhoni’s calm guidance, fostering a positive team culture has been a priority. Kohli’s actions continue this proud tradition .

These seemingly small moments—like a shared joke or a playful nickname—are the glue that holds a team together during long tours and intense series. They create a safe space where players can be themselves, which is crucial for peak performance. For a rookie like Rana, experiencing this firsthand in his very first major tournament is an invaluable lesson in what it truly means to be an Indian cricketer.

From Champions Trophy to Future Series

As India looks ahead to future challenges, including the World Test Championship and the next T20 World Cup, the integration of young talents like Harshit Rana will be critical. The confidence he gained from that Champions Trophy win, and from that simple, warm welcome from Virat Kohli, will undoubtedly fuel his performances in the years to come.

It’s these human connections, these off-field moments of levity and bonding, that often translate into on-field success. The “Bhabhi bol” story is a charming reminder that cricket, at its best, is a game played by friends for a common cause.

Conclusion

Harshit Rana’s tale of his first meeting with Anushka Sharma, punctuated by Virat Kohli’s iconic “Bhabhi bol!” instruction, is more than just a viral clip. It’s a heartwarming insight into the soul of the Indian cricket team. It showcases Kohli’s ability to lead with both intensity and warmth, and it marks the official, and very personal, welcome of a promising new star into the national setup. In a sport often defined by statistics and records, it’s these genuine human moments that resonate most deeply with fans around the world.

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