Mumbai [India]: Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina recently shared his experiences of playing alongside star batter Virat Kohli, highlighting Kohli’s unique passion and relentless drive on the field. In an exclusive interview with Star Sports, Raina spoke about Kohli’s unmatched dedication and the energy he brings to the game, particularly during fielding sessions.
Raina revealed that Kohli’s mindset sets him apart, describing him as a player who is always “switched on.” Kohli approaches practice and matches with a warrior-like mentality, often saying, “We would not leave until we die.”
“His mindset is extraordinary. Virat is the kind of teammate who uplifts everyone in the dressing room. When he practices, it’s with a different level of preparation. Even in fielding, when the situation is tough, he’s the first to motivate the team to fight,” Raina said.
The former cricketer also emphasized how Kohli’s infectious enthusiasm during fielding sessions inspires others. “I enjoyed fielding with him because his passion is so unique. When Virat gets into the mood, diving and giving his all, it changes the attitude of everyone around him. Being from North India, there’s a fierce determination instilled in us—we hate losing. That same mindset defines Virat,” Raina added.
Virat Kohli to Make a Ranji Trophy Return After 13 Years
In what could be a rare appearance in domestic cricket, Virat Kohli is set to join the Delhi team for their Ranji Trophy match against Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, starting January 30. This marks Kohli’s first participation in the Ranji Trophy since 2012.
Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh confirmed the news, stating that Kohli would begin training with the squad on Tuesday. This move comes as part of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) renewed push for international stars to participate in domestic tournaments.
Kohli’s Recent Form Under Scrutiny
Despite his legendary career, Kohli has faced challenges in Test cricket since 2020. Over the past 39 matches, he has scored 2,028 runs at an average of 30.72, with just three centuries and nine fifties. His highest score in this period is 186.
In the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (2023–25) cycle, Kohli has managed 751 runs in 14 matches at an average of 32.65, including two centuries. His performance in 2024 was below par, with just 417 runs in 10 matches at an average of 24.52, including one century and one fifty.
Preparing for Upcoming Challenges
Recently, Kohli has been training with Sanjay Bangar, his former batting coach for India and the Royal Challengers Bangalore, as videos of their sessions surfaced on social media.
The final round of Ranji Trophy matches concludes on February 2, just four days before India begins their three-match ODI series against England in Nagpur. Kohli’s participation in domestic cricket is seen as a strategic move to regain form and rhythm ahead of this crucial series.
With over 11,000 runs in 155 First-Class matches at an average of 48.23, Kohli remains one of the most accomplished players in the game. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as he works to recapture his best form in the months ahead.
