NEW DELHI: The first ODI between India and Australia in Perth saw the return of Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli to international cricket after a long time. Though the result was a disappointing loss for India but the Australian player Mattew Short later described a powerful moment that perfectly summed up the electrifying atmosphere in the stadium.

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The loudest welcome in Perth

In a video posted by Cricket Australia, Matt Short described the surreal atmosphere in the stadium, noting the immense presence of Indian fans who were there purely for the spectacle of cricket. He specifically described the sudden shift in the crowd noise when Kohli walked onto the field, comparing it to a feeling of pity for the outgoing player.

Short recalled the moment: "You know, the fans were there, purely for the entertainment. I know there was probably more Indian fans, but, hopefully I can sort of keep them a bit more quiet this time, but, it's actually funny. I think when Rohit or Gill went out the other day and then Kohli came on and, just the cheer that when he was walking on, you'd feel pretty bad as the batter walking out."

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The love for their heroes

Short felt the cheer was so loud and sudden that it actually made him feel a bit sorry for the outgoing Indian batter. However, he quickly focused on the positive aspect of the noise, recognizing it as a direct expression of deep affection for the Kohli.

He concluded his thought by reflecting on the profound connection between the fans and the players: "But yeah, it's just an amazing experience just to see, you know, just the love they have for the sport and, I guess their heroes out in the middle."

Despite the massive, roaring welcome, Virat Kohli's return was short-lived as he was dismissed for a duck after facing just eight balls. This poor start coincided with India losing the rain-affected first ODI against Australia by seven wickets.