How Can I Play For India?" Virat Kohli Asked By Boy At Ranji Trophy Training. Star Replies: "Tell Papa...
Virat Kohli’s Incredible Life-Changing Advice Stuns Young Cricket Fan | Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Moment
A Historic Homecoming at Feroz Shah Kotla
The morning air at Delhi’s iconic Feroz Shah Kotla ground was charged with anticipation as a jet black Porsche rolled through the ‘Virender Sehwag Gate’ at precisely 9 AM. The arrival marked a significant moment – the homecoming of Delhi’s beloved son, Virat Kohli, for his first training stint with his first-class team in over 12 years.
The significance of this rare appearance wasn’t lost on anyone present at the historic ground. For the current generation of Delhi cricketers, this was more than just a practice session; it was a masterclass with one of cricket’s greatest modern legends. The excitement was palpable as news of Kohli’s arrival spread through the cricketing circles of Delhi.
The Evolution from ‘Cheeku’ to Cricket Icon
For most of the 18-member Delhi squad, except Navdeep Saini, this was their first personal encounter with the cricket icon they had only watched on television. The transformation of Delhi’s ‘Cheeku’ into global cricket’s most commercially viable brand over the past 15 years had been nothing short of extraordinary. The nickname, given by former team manager Ajit Chaudhary in 2006-07, still brings smiles to those who knew him during his formative years.
DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma, fondly known as ‘Mama’, reminisced about Kohli’s journey from his first U-15 trials to becoming India’s most successful Test captain. “The determination in his eyes hasn’t changed since he first stepped onto this ground,” Sharma noted, watching Kohli interact with young players.
“I asked him how can I play for India? He said, ‘You have to practice hard. And it shouldn’t be your Papa telling you to go to practice. You should tell Papa, I have to go to practice.'”
A Day of Learning and Inspiration
The three-hour session was a masterclass in professional cricket training. Kohli’s approach to practice revealed why he’s considered one of the most disciplined cricketers in the world. The session began with a comprehensive 35-minute warm-up, the longest the senior team had ever done. This was followed by an energetic football game where Kohli showed his competitive spirit hasn’t dimmed one bit.
The net session that followed was a study in batting technique. Young bowlers got the rare opportunity to bowl to one of the world’s best batsmen, with Kohli offering tips and encouragement after each delivery. The session included:
- A methodical warm-up focusing on flexibility and core strength
- 15 minutes of high-intensity football to improve agility
- An hour of intensive net practice with specific focus areas
- Special attention to pull shots and spin bowling techniques
- One-on-one mentoring sessions with younger players
Technical Mastery and Champions Trophy Preparation
With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, Kohli’s training session offered insights into his meticulous preparation. His focus was evident in every aspect of his practice, particularly in:
- Perfecting the technique of playing beside the line of deliveries
- Enhancing back-foot play against short-pitched bowling
- Expanding shot range square of the wicket
- Working on specific defensive techniques against spin
- Developing new attacking options for the middle overs
The session also highlighted Kohli’s evolving approach to batting in different formats. His focus on back-foot play suggested preparation for the bouncy tracks expected in the upcoming tournament, while his work against spin indicated a strategy for middle-over dominance.
Impact on Young Cricketers
The presence of young Kabir, a fourth-grade student whose father Shavez once played U-17 and U-19 cricket with Kohli, added a touching dimension to the day. Kabir’s interaction with Kohli, armed with a hand-drawn sketch of his idol, exemplified the impact the cricket star continues to have on young aspirants.
The session wasn’t just about technical cricket; it was about passing on the mental aspects of the game. Kohli’s emphasis on self-motivation and dedication, similar to his approach detailed in the Ranji Trophy development program, resonated deeply with the young cricketers present. His message about taking ownership of one’s practice routine particularly struck a chord with the upcoming players.
A Legacy in the Making
The practice session concluded at the historic ground, which has been recently upgraded according to DDCA’s modernization plans. Kohli particularly praised young curator Ankit Datta’s work on the practice facilities.
For more information about youth cricket development in Delhi, visit the DDCA Youth Development Program page.