Indian PM Narendra Modi on Thursday interacted with several fitness enthusiasts from across the country on the 1st anniversary of the Fit India movement. This included current India cricket captain Virat Kohli as well and the two had some interesting dialogue during their sessions.
Virat is one of the fittest cricketers in the world at the moment and PM Modi was inquisitive about his fitness regime and also wanted to know how he keeps himself refreshed despite such a hectic schedule and whether he gets tired.
Responding to the query, Kohli said, "If I have to tell you honestly, everyone gets tired. But if your lifestyle is good, if you are eating well, if your fitness routine is good, if your sleep is good, then you will be able to recover faster. Whenever I feel tired, I am able to recover well. That's because of my fitness routines.”
Delving more into the fitness regime of Virat Kohli, PM Modi questioned him about the yo-yo test that has become the benchmark of fitness for the Indian cricket team and everyone has to maintain a certain number on the test, as the team management has made it a prerequisite for selection in the senior national team. Yo-Yo test, which measures the endurance level of athletes.
Explaining the importance of the endurance Test to PM Modi, Virat said, "Sir, the test (Yo-yo) is very important, when considering the fitness point of view. When you're looking at the global level, our team's level is still a little below the mark. We are looking to take that higher, it's a basic requirement.”
"T20Is and ODIs get over in a day. When you're talking about a Test match, we have to play five days, play one full day, get back and return refreshed for the next day's play. When considering it, the fitness benchmark is very important. I take the initiative and run first for the test. There is a condition, if I fail the test, I will also not be available for selection. I think this system and culture need to be set,” Kohli further said.
Team management has complete freedom to decide over yo-yo test: Ganguly
Kohli stressed the importance of players’ fitness in scenario of the Test matches where the game goes into 4th, 5th days, and players need to maintain the same level of energy and endurance as they had when the match started on day 1.
"Overall, the fitness level of the team is important. Our fast bowlers, who are the best in the world right now, are able to give their full effort even on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th days. We always had the skill, but in crucial moments, our performances used to dip. The opposition team used to win. These days, due to our fitness, we are able to capitalize on the crucial moments of the game. The results are coming because of this. This benchmark is very important for elite sportsmen,” Kohli said.
(India today inputs)
