Veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane has offered insight on Virat Kohli’s persona, and what it was like playing under the latter’s leadership for Indian team.
Rahane mentioned that Kohli’s greatness goes far beyond visible passion or the appetite for runs. As per him, the real difference lies in attitude, one that is often misunderstood from the outside.
“However much we talk about Virat Kohli is never enough. But I have seen him very closely, how he goes about his batting. We talk about his passion and his intent each and every time. But I feel for me what stands out is his attitude. Attitude of learning, attitude of never giving up. People outside think Virat is arrogant, but he is not. He gets into the zone,” Rahane said while speaking on Cricbuzz.
Rahane revealed that Kohli tends to go into his zone leading up to a game, limiting conversations even with teammates.
“I saw him two days before the game. He'll hardly talk with people, even with the teammates. That's what actually gets him into the zone. He'll always wear his AirPods or try and listen to whatever he wants to and what he likes to get into the zone,” Rahane stated.
He added, “Initially it took all the players a little bit of time. Why is he doing that? But then I got to know that he's actually getting into the zone while not talking to the players or while not talking to anyone.”
Rahane also highlighted Kohli’s unmatched work ethic and constant desire to improve, even after achieving the legendary status.
“His attitude is amazing. His work ethics are amazing,” Rahane said. “Every time you see him, you see something different. He always wants to change. He always wants to improve and always wants to contribute for the team.”
Virat Kohli played a match-winning knock of 93 in the first ODI against New Zealand at BCA Stadium, Vadodara on Sunday (January 11).
During the innings, the 37-year-old scaled 28,000 runs across all formats and became the second-highest run-getter in international cricket, surpassing Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara. Only compatriot Sachin Tendulkar is ahead on the all-time list with 34,357 runs to his credit.
