Watch: Virat Kohli bowls over English school kids

SOUTHAMPTON: For the 30 youngsters of Southampton’s Springhill School, Thursday was a special day. They had a date with the Indian cricket staff at the Hampshire Bowl under an England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) programme, wherein schoolchildren are given a chance to spend time with players from groups that includes within the ongoing World Cup.

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The youngsters had a fun time, playing cricket with the Indian stars, getting photos and autographs. The most sought-after for them was, of course, Virat Kohli who gave them time and made them really feel at ease.

Kohli, having a look very comfy, mingled around with the younger ones and made positive that each kid had his autograph.

🏏 "I believe that cricket can really make a difference to children's lives" Virat Kohli bats for Cricket4Good. Wat… https://t.co/KUGSU9yBoc

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Nine-year-old Shiven Kumar, who had his dad Dr Sanjeet Kumar in tow, got the signatures of his two idols — Kohli and MS Dhoni — on his bat. He had this to say about Kohli: “He was very kind. He was not weird and he didn't ignore me.”

Shiven wants to be a batsman but additionally likes bowling and calls Jasprit Bumrah his favourite bowler.

Annabel and Eva, two budding cricketers, had been shy however opened up after some encouragement. "Kohli told me I've sharp skills for bowling," Annabel stated.

The two girls also play football and had been following the ladies’s football World Cup as well. What excites you more, football or cricket?

"Cricket," the 2 stated in unison.