Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli alongside Maharashtra Sports Minister Ashish Shelar graced the opening day of the Mumbai leg where homegroup U Mumba took on Puneri Paltan in the 'Maharashtra Derby'.

In front of the match, PKL had said in its explanation that Kohli will be "cheering with the fans for the Maharashtra derby followed by Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Bengal Warriors."

Kohli talked about kabaddi and said thanks to the crowd present at the NSCI arena for the love they have for the game. The cricketer even sang the national song of devotion in front of the beginning of the clash as every one of the players and authorities remained on the tangle.

He later proceeded to join individuals sitting at the sidelines to watch the activity between U Mumba and Puneri Paltan. Each time the camera panned towards him, the captain could be seen marvelling about the splendid moves by the players.

The captain took to Instagram to share his experience and expressed, "Honoured to be a part of such a special evening at @prokabaddi yesterday. Jai Hind"

"Kabaddi has taken a leap in the sports culture in our country since the inception of Pro Kabaddi League. Seeing a sport that we all have played as kids get to this stature today gives a different feeling altogether, especially when you know that the Indian kabaddi team is one of the best ones in the world," said Virat.

The Mumbai leg of PKL 7 will finish up on August 2.  This is the seventh season of the Pro Kabaddi League, which started in 2014.