India’s cricket fans are buzzing as Virat Kohli prepares to return to international cricket in the three-match ODI series against Australia (Image credit: Agencies)

NEW DELHI: India’s cricket fans are buzzing as Virat Kohli prepares to return to international cricket in the three-match ODI series against Australia, starting October 19. The long-awaited moment finally arrived on Wednesday, as the Shubman Gill-led ODI squad departed for their white-ball tour. Among the travelers were Kohli and Rohit Sharma, boarding their flight to Perth from Delhi on Wednesday.

Before leaving, Kohli shared a touching moment with a young RCB fan outside the team hotel. Spotted while seated on the team bus, the 36-year-old asked security to allow the boy to retrieve a poster featuring his name. Kohli signed the poster, handed it back to the thrilled fan in an RCB jersey, and posed for a picture in front of the bus. Kohli had returned to India after four months, landing in Delhi on Tuesday. Watch the video hereThe series will also mark the comeback of Rohit Sharma, who, along with Kohli, retired from Test cricket in May. Both last played for India during the victorious Champions Trophy, eight months ago. The three-match ODI series between India and Australia begins with the 1st ODI at Perth Stadium. The 2nd ODI follows on October 23 at Adelaide Oval, and the series concludes with the 3rd ODI on October 25 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

IND vs AUS ODI SERIES: FULL SCHEDULE