In a cricket-crazy nation like India, if the sport is considered a religion, then the cricketers are no less than demigods themselves. From the iconic Kapil Dev to the great Sachin Tendulkar, Indian cricketers have thoroughly enjoyed their popularity over the years.

In the modern era, while there have been notable changes in cricket, the popularity of cricketers continues to grow with the Indian cricket team scaling new heights. The old legends have been replaced with the new ones amid the rise of cricketers like Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh.

But, amongst the modern-day greats, no other cricketer dominates the proceedings the way Virat Kohli does. Whether it's his sensational batting performances or impeccable leadership skills, the Indian captain reigns supreme like no other with his fans ranging from all age groups.

© BCCL

A specimen of his ever-growing popularity was once again at full display at the Kennington Oval after he led Team India to a morale-boosting win over New Zealand in their first warm-up match of the coveted ICC Champions Trophy.

After a 45-run win (via D/L) over the Kiwis in a rain-curtailed game, Kohli was standing in the balcony of India's dressing room when the fans began chanting his name. And, the Indian skipper didn't disappoint either.

The 28-year-old obliged by signing a few jerseys and giving autographs on other memorabilia which were brought by the fans.

© BCCL

The incident was captured by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) which was later shared through a small video on Twitter.

🇮🇳 vs 🇳🇿 #CT17 warm-up match - After India won on D/L, the skipper @imVkohli obliged the fans #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/ITrepEkSqq

"#CT17 warm-up match - After India won on D/L, the skipper @imVkohli obliged the fans #INDvNZ," BCCI tweeted from their official handle.

Clearly, Kohli is the undisputed king of the Indian cricket team. However, the right-hander, who witnessed a rare forgetful outing in the IPL earlier this year, will have to step up his game if India intends to successfully defend their title in England and Wales this year.