Virat Kohli revealed during a podcast interview that both MS Dhoni and Gary Kirsten were instrumental in shaping his evolution into a top-level global player. Virat Kohli received his first ODI selection under coach Gary Kirsten during Sri Lanka’s series.India national cricket team merchandise
Kohli discussed his approach to personal honesty about his abilities during an interview on the RCB Podcast which Mayanti Langer hosted. The strong determination inside him grew after he compared himself to others and realized his game lacked their level. His unwavering determination to perform everything needed to win matches led him to secure an early place on India’s national team.
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“I was very realistic about my abilities because I had seen a lot of other people play, and I did not feel like my game was anywhere close to theirs. The only thing I had was determination. If I wanted to make my team win, I was willing to do anything. That was the very reason I got chances to play for India initially. Gary and MS made it very clear to me that they were backing me to play at number three. They told me this is what you can do for the team, and what you represent on the field — your energy, your engagement — that is of the biggest value to us. So they wanted me to play that way,” Virat Kohli said.
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Supported for Number 3 Position
Both Gary Kirsten and MS Dhoni expressed their strong support for Kohli’s position as the number three batsman, according to him. The coaching staff believed his field presence added significant energy together with intense involvement so they greatly valued this quality. The team wanted him to play using the same intensive style he had adopted previously.India national cricket team merchandise
Not Technically Perfect, But Always Willing to Learn
When Virat Kohli began his career people viewed him as lacking the natural ability to win matches independently from any situation which distinguished him from gifted stars. His exceptional determination together with his mental toughness set him apart from other cricketers during demanding situations. His mindset earned him supporters including MS Dhoni and Gary Kirsten.
“I was never looked at as this outright match-winner who could change the game from anywhere, but I had this thing — I was going to stay in the fight, I wasn’t going to give up. That is what they backed. That very thing that God blessed me with helped me to improve my game, my technique, everything. I’ve never been shy to admit that I was not the most technically sound or naturally gifted player. I evolved a lot while playing because I was very keen to learn, very keen to get better. I wanted to be the best — there’s no denying that. I wanted to be the best. And that hunger, that desire to keep improving, to eventually win more games for my team, is what helped me improve my game,” he added.
Kohli acknowledges from the beginning he lacked skill and natural abilities in cricket. Throughout his career he maintained a strong desire to improve his game knowledge. Kohli’s dedication to excellence served him and his teammates because his determination helped advance his skills for team victory.
