IND vs NZ: Why did Virat Kohli carry packaged water bottles to Indore for 3rd ODI? Explained
(Courtesy :Â BCCI)
A short clip of Virat Kohli carrying a bag full of packaged water bottles went viral.
Ahead of the third and final ODI between India and New Zealand (IND vs NZ) in Indore, Virat Kohli was seen carrying a bag full of packaged water bottles. This incident has sparked curiosity among many fans on social media ahead of the ODI series decider.
Virat Kohli has long been regarded as one of the fittest cricketers in the world, with hydration a key pillar of his routine. Over the years, the former India captain has spoken in detail about how small factors such as water quality, sleep cycles, and diet directly impact performance and recovery.
Kohli reportedly sticks to specific premium packaged water brands. This includes Evian Natural Spring Water sourced from France. Carrying his own supply ensures complete control over what he consumes, eliminating even the smallest health risk.
Virat Kohli’s precaution amid the ongoing contaminated water scare
The timing of the incident has added another layer of context. Indore, despite its reputation as one of India‘s cleanest cities, has recently faced a serious public health issue. Several areas, particularly Bhagirathpura, have reported deaths linked to contaminated drinking water, with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea.
Government authorities have since shut down affected water sources and arranged tanker-supplied clean water. The initial reports suggest that over 20 deaths may be connected to the outbreak. With an international match scheduled in the city, concerns around safety and hygiene have naturally risen.
The Indian team’s hotel and the Holkar Stadium are equipped with RO systems and packaged drinking water. With the ongoing contaminated water crisis, players appear to be taking additional precautions. Kohli’s decision to carry packaged water is seen as a preventive step rather than a reactionary one.
Interestingly, Kohli is not alone in this approach. India captain Shubman Gill reportedly brought a specialised water purification machine worth around INR 3 lakh to Indore.
The device, installed in his hotel room, is capable of re-purifying even RO-treated and packaged water, further underlining the team’s cautious stance.
With the ODI series against New Zealand level at 1-1, India cannot afford distractions or health setbacks ahead of the decider. Kohli’s attention to hydration reflects a larger mindset within the squad: leaving nothing to chance as they gear up for a must-win encounter on home soil.
Why was Virat Kohli carrying packaged water in Indore?
Kohli carried his own packaged water as a precaution due to Indore’s ongoing water contamination concerns and his strict fitness routine.
Are special safety measures in place for the Indian team in Indore?
The team’s hotel and stadium have RO systems and packaged water, with players also taking personal precautions.
Did other Indian players take similar precautions?
India captain Shubman Gill reportedly brought a high-end water purification machine to ensure safe drinking water.
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Vishwajit Sawant is a sports content writer with two years of experience who believes in writing that feels honest, simple, and easy to read. He enjoys breaking down sporting moments into stories readers can genuinely connect with, without relying on fancy vocabulary. His work spans cricket, football, basketball, tennis, and Formula 1, with a focus on match previews, reviews, and reports. Vishwajit believes good content doesn’t need to be loud — it just needs to leave a subtle impact.