India vs Australia: Facebook, Instagram launches AR effect featuring Virat Kohli

Facebook and Instagram on Wednesday launched an Augmented Reality (AR) effect featuring Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli.

Called as "Bat Talks for India", the filter will allow cricket fans to re-create Virat’s iconic celebration after recording a ton against Australia nearly two years ago by covering this effect on their photos and videos, and sharing it on Facebook and Instagram.

Kohli in a statement said, "I am delighted to collaborate with Facebook to launch the new 'Bat Talks for India' filter and enable my fans to relive one of the most memorable moments from my career, virtually. I look forward to cricket enthusiasts in India and across the world to experience this new way to connect and engage.”

Kohli on his Twitter handle wrote, “Guys, it's finally here Raising hands. Visit my Instagram profile and scroll over to the filters tab to try out my new AR filter. Shoot something creative and use #BatTalk in your videos for a repost Winking face. Let's get creative!”

Facebook has teamed up with Sportsmanias, a company which creates sports emojis and augmented reality effects to develop the 3D AR effect. On Facebook, the effect is available on Virat Kohli's post.

On Instagram too, the effect is available in Virat Kohli's profile within the effects tab. Kohli’s fans can also access the effects within the Instagram Camera effect tray by opening their camera, tapping the effect icon and swiping right until they find the desired effect.

Meanwhile, India will battle against Australia on Friday in three ODI series in Adelaide.