The cricketing world ushered in New Year 2026 in celebratory fashion as players and their families marked the moment in their own unique ways. As the clock struck midnight and the calendar turned, Indian cricketers quickly slipped into holiday mode, choosing everything from quiet family time to tropical getaways and intimate celebrations away from the spotlight.
Virat Kohli welcomed 2026 in a calm, low-key setting in Dubai, accompanied by Anushka Sharma and close friends. Away from the noise of big parties, the couple opted for a relaxed celebration, soaking in the moment together and sharing warm smiles as they stepped into the new year.
Latest instagram post by King Kohli 🔥
— CricPal (@AnupPalAgt) January 1, 2026
Virat Kohli with Anuska Sharma 🔥 pic.twitter.com/gaQgOy4Ora
Former India captain MS Dhoni, on the other hand, celebrated in his trademark cheerful style in Thailand. Joined by wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva, Dhoni rang in the New Year with laughter, music, and family fun. Pictures and videos from the celebration reflected the Dhoni household’s love for simple joy and togetherness.
MS Dhoni celebrating New Year in Thailand. pic.twitter.com/41XVE7pGKd
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 31, 2025
Indian women’s cricketers also welcomed the New Year with gratitude and positivity, seeking blessings and spending quality time with loved ones after a historic 2025 season. Fresh off their World Cup triumph, the Women in Blue chose peace and reflection as they stepped into a year filled with new challenges.
Smriti Mandhana, Shafali, Shreyanka, Radha, Renuka & Sneh Rana visited & offer prayers at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain on New Year occasion. 🙏 (ANI).pic.twitter.com/uecYJx1dEj
— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) January 1, 2026
Jasprit Bumrah welcomed 2026 alongside his wife Sanjana Ganesan in an intimate setting, embracing a quiet and elegant celebration. Known for keeping his personal life private, Bumrah chose quality time over grandeur, marking the start of the New Year with calm smiles and meaningful moments.
Wake up babyy, Kohli saab has started posting regularly what a way to start the new year ❤️ pic.twitter.com/yUcXDE8Qs0
— Kevin (@imkevin149) January 1, 2026
From serene dinners to beachside countdowns, India’s cricketers showcased that celebrations don’t always need extravagance. As 2026 begins, the stars of Indian cricket look refreshed, recharged, and ready for another action-packed year on the field.
Kuldeep Yadav with his fiancée. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/N2wkmOBeMF
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 31, 2025