- Nasima Akter
India Star Narrates Unheard Tale About Virat Kohli
Star India cricketer Virat Kohli has always been driven by a deep-rooted "belief" rather than mere "hope," according to his long-time teammate and veteran India pacer, Ishant Sharma. Ishant, who has shared the field with Kohli since their U-17 days in Delhi, has witnessed the various ups and downs that the former India captain has faced throughout his illustrious career. Renowned as the "chase master," Kohli has time and again single-handedly won games for India, especially when other players have had an off day. One particular innings stands out in everyone's memory, which took place last year during the T20 World Cup in Australia, when Kohli played a remarkable knock against Pakistan.
In a recent interaction, Ishant fondly recalled an incident from their U-19 days, where Kohli demonstrated his incredible talent and determination. "We were playing a U-19 match in Kolkata. He batted overnight, yet he decided to party all night. Astonishingly, the very next day, he went on to score an astounding 250 runs. Witnessing that phase of Kohli's career was truly remarkable. In my opinion, the most commendable thing about him is how he transformed his physical aspect after the 2012 World Cup. His training, combined with his diet, significantly elevated his mental strength and overall cricketing prowess," Ishant revealed during his appearance on the Beer Biceps podcast.
Furthermore, Ishant added insights into Kohli's unique mindset, citing a conversation with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. "Sachin paaji used to say that hope is not just a word; it's a feeling. However, if you speak to Virat Kohli, you'll realize that the word 'hope' doesn't exist in his dictionary. His dictionary solely consists of the word 'belief.' According to Kohli, with belief, one can achieve anything. This unwavering belief is what sets him apart, making him an incredibly intense competitor," Ishant emphasized.
Presently, Kohli is taking some time away from the game, allowing himself a well-deserved break. However, cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate his return during the upcoming tour of the West Indies, scheduled for next month.
The tour between India and the West Indies promises to be an exciting affair, featuring a range of matches across different formats. Two Test matches, three ODIs, and five T20Is have been scheduled, providing a perfect platform for players to showcase their skills and engage in exhilarating contests on the cricket field.
Kohli's presence on the tour is anticipated with great enthusiasm, as he is not only a revered figure in Indian cricket but also a global icon. His batting prowess, coupled with his astute leadership abilities, has earned him numerous accolades and an ardent fan following. Kohli's dedication to fitness and his relentless pursuit of excellence have set new standards in the world of cricket, inspiring aspiring cricketers worldwide to strive for greatness.
Off the field, Kohli has also made significant contributions to society. Through his foundation, he has been actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting causes related to education, child welfare, and health. Kohli's commitment to making a positive impact off the field has further endeared him to fans around the world.
As Kohli gears up to resume his cricketing duties, his admirers eagerly anticipate witnessing his exemplary skills and unwavering belief in action once again. His performances on the field continue to inspire and resonate with cricket lovers, ensuring that his legacy as one of the game's greatest will endure for years to come.
