Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Jun 1: Fresh from helping the Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully defend their IPL title, veteran batter Virat Kohli reflected on the evolution of his game, the changing demands of T20 cricket and the importance of adaptability for the next generation of Indian cricketers.
After another influential season with the bat and a key contribution in RCB's title-winning victory over the Gujarat Titans, Kohli said his longevity at the highest level has been driven by a constant desire to improve and find new ways to contribute to team success.
The former India captain emphasised that modern cricket requires players to possess a broad skill set rather than relying solely on power-hitting. He encouraged young cricketers to develop the ability to adjust according to match situations and conditions.
According to Kohli, successful batters must be capable of playing multiple roles depending on the demands of the game. Whether attacking, rotating the strike or grinding through difficult phases, players need to find ways to remain effective even when conditions are not ideal.
He stressed that such adaptability comes from extensive preparation away from the spotlight, noting that the groundwork for match-winning performances is laid during training sessions and practice routines rather than on game day alone.
Kohli said he hopes to share these lessons with younger players whenever they seek his advice, adding that maintaining the high standards associated with Indian cricket should remain a priority for the country's emerging talent.
The 37-year-old believes versatility is one of the defining characteristics of elite cricketers. He explained that his own approach has always centred on building a well-rounded game capable of responding to different situations rather than relying on a single method of scoring.
Reflecting on the evolution of T20 cricket, Kohli acknowledged that the format has changed dramatically in recent years, forcing even experienced players to reassess their techniques and expand their range of skills.
While he may not be known for hitting the highest number of sixes, Kohli pointed out that his strength lies in consistent boundary-scoring and maintaining pressure on bowlers through timing, placement and calculated aggression. To remain effective in the modern game, he has consciously worked on improving the more explosive aspects of his batting without abandoning the fundamentals that have defined his career.
Kohli also highlighted a statistic that reinforces his value to the team, noting that RCB's success rate over the past two seasons has remained perfect whenever he has batted deep into an innings. That, he said, gives him confidence that occupying the crease for longer periods significantly improves the team's chances of victory.
Looking back on Bengaluru's successful title defence, Kohli said the team entered the final with a level of calmness and belief that was built through consistent performances throughout the season. Finishing at the top of the league standings had reinforced the squad's confidence and validated their status as the competition's strongest side.
According to Kohli, the champions approached the final without doubts, trusting both their preparation and their collective ability. He praised the team's professionalism and maturity across the campaign, describing the title-winning season as the result of sustained excellence rather than a single standout performance.
The veteran batter's message to young cricketers was clear: success in modern cricket is not determined solely by power or flair, but by understanding situations, preparing thoroughly and continuously evolving with the demands of the game.