From leading India to lift the under 19 world cup trophy in 2008 to becoming the number 1 batsman on ICC’s list of cricket rankings, Virat Kohli has come a long way. The skipper’s journey from being a regular Delhi boy to a world-class cricketer has inspired many youngsters. His grit and determination to make a name in the world of cricket were evident ever since Virat had just begun playing at the international level.
And, Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen who has shared the dressing room and the cricket field with Virat stands testament to the fact. Talking to HT Kevin said, “Sitting on the bus with Virat and batting with Virat, I knew he was destined for greatness because of how he approached the game and the way he learnt and the questions he asked.”
“He was a chubby little fella back then and I still take the mickey out of him for it. But his determination to be the best player he could possibly be was evident,” Kevin recalled.
Kevin and Virat had also locked horns at the Indian Premier League (IPL) when the former used to play for Rajasthan Royals and the later for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Recalling an incident from one of the IPL matches, Kevin told NDTV, “I remember I was winning a game for us against Rajasthan Royals and he ran me out. I gave him an absolute serve walking off the field.”
“But you could see this was a youngster who was determined to get his team over the line. He wasn’t just going to give his wicket away and it didn’t matter how many Tests I’d played or how much more senior I was,” he added.
“We do have an incredible friendship, probably because of the way I treated him when he was a youngster and how I helped and guided him at the start of his career,” Kevin said.
Virat Kohli and his journey to success is truly inspirational. We hope he keeps bringing laurels to our country for many more years to come. Kudos to you, captain!