Dayal also said he felt at home in RCB as he was backed by Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, the Indian batting legend received huge praise from his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate Yash Dayal. The left-arm pacer also credited the legend with boosting his confidence during the recent IPL 2024.
Dayal's voyage through the stormy seas of the IPL has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, including both defeat and redemption.
The teenage pacer, who was previously in the eye of a storm after a terrible over against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2023, has now emerged stronger than ever, thanks to Kohli's backing and a new chapter with RCB.
Dayal explained how Kohli's backing put him at ease. Kohli promised him that he would support him throughout the season, making him feel welcome and a part of the squad. Dayal vividly remembered Kohli's words, highlighting their beneficial impact.
"The biggest thing he (Kohli) said to me was that he will back me the whole season,” Dayal said on Sports Tak.
This certainty enabled Dayal to adjust fast and perform better. He no longer felt as if he was in an alien setting, thanks to Kohli's encouragement and support. Kohli's commitment to young players stood out to Dayal.
He stated that Kohli speaks to the young players in a "very healthy way," refuting any negative perceptions made by the media. Dayal expressed that Kohli is different from the intense image often portrayed on TV.
“He told me that I would not feel like I had come to a new place, and he backed me completely. So this was a huge boost up and he talks to the youngsters in such a very healthy way and he is nothing like what people talk about on TV. I don't feel like that," Dayal told Sports Tak.
Dayal's experience demonstrates Kohli's good influence on young players. Kohli's reassurances and warm personality foster a welcoming environment in which new team members thrive.