Batting legend Virat Kohli sparked a social media frenzy after meeting a young fan who bears an uncanny resemblance to his younger self ahead of India’s opening One Day International (ODI) against New Zealand in Vadodara.

The heartwarming interaction occurred during a training break when the 37-year-old stopped to sign autographs and interact with a crowd of supporters.

Netizens quickly dubbed the kid “Mini VK,” with many highlighting that he resembled Kohli’s childhood photos. Social media was flooded with reactions, including one viral comment that said, “19-20 ka bhi farak nahi hai”. Another user labeled the boy a “same to same copy” of the former captain.

Kohli, who has maintained a dominant run with two centuries and two fifties in his last four ODI appearances, appeared visibly amused and shared a smile with the child.

The three-match series against the Black Caps is set to commence on January 11 at the Kotambi International Stadium, marking a return to the format for both Kohli and Rohit Sharma before the upcoming T20 World Cup and IPL.

The series will continue with matches in Rajkot on January 14 and Indore on January 18.