Virat Kohli is known for being super intense and determined to win, and he never really liked practice matches. Instead, he preferred to practice on tough pitches with fast bowlers coming at him from 16 yards, according to Bharat Arun, the former bowling coach for India. Arun, who was on the coaching team during Kohli’s best years as captain, said those times were some of the best in his career. Indian cricket and the game worldwide will miss him and his presence, Arun told PTI, adding, I had some great times coaching under Virat’s captaincy.
Arun shared how Kohli never enjoyed practice games because he felt they lacked intensity. He would rather be in the nets, facing quick bowlers or getting throw-downs. “He always wanted a challenge. That’s what fueled him,” Arun said. He also talked about a key moment before the 2018 Boxing Day Test in Melbourne when the series was tied. Kohli had just scored an amazing century in Perth, but they didn’t win. “Going into Melbourne, Virat really changed the mood in the dressing room. He made everyone believe we could win,” Arun explained. India ended up winning that Test, making history with their first series win in Australia.
Kohli finished his career with 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, which included 30 centuries and an average of 46.85. His captaincy record of 40 wins in 68 Tests is the best for any Indian captain. He respected the format a lot, and he’ll definitely be missed, Arun wrapped up.
