
Virat Kohli, Delhi’s very own cricket icon, made a highly anticipated return to his home ground at Feroz Shah Kotla after over a decade. The 35-year-old cricketer, who is now a global superstar, arrived at the venue on his sleek black Porsche at 9 AM, marking a sentimental moment for the Delhi cricket community. His visit wasn’t just about the glitz and glamour; it was a humble training stint with his first-class team, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement.
For the 18 members of the Delhi squad, except pacer Navdeep Saini, it was a momentous occasion, as they had only ever seen Kohli on television or heard the stories about his meteoric rise from a promising young talent to one of the most recognized faces in world cricket. Kohli’s presence on the field was nothing short of magnetic. Whether it was the young players or the experienced coaching staff, everyone seemed drawn to him like moths to a flame.
Kohli, while courteous to all, seemed most at ease with his former U-19 coach Mahesh Bhati, who is now the administrative manager for the Delhi team. The day turned into a spectacle, with the typically quiet Ranji Trophy match suddenly drawing the attention of a larger crowd, thanks to the star power of Kohli. Even JioCinema, which hadn’t planned to stream the game, made special arrangements to cover the event, a testament to Kohli’s immense draw and his ability to boost viewership.
Virat Kohli: A ‘Homecoming’ for Delhi Cricket
It wasn’t just a day for Kohli to reconnect with his roots but also an opportunity for the younger cricketers, such as Sanat Sangwan, Arpit Rana, and Siddhant Sharma, to learn from the best. Despite being an international cricketing sensation, Kohli’s demeanor on the field suggested that he hadn’t let fame change his relationship with his local team. He was no longer the ‘King’ of Indian cricket but their very own “Virat Bhaiya,” sharing valuable lessons with the next generation.
The training session, lasting for around three hours, was an insightful experience for everyone. Kohli started his warm-up with a 15-minute football game followed by a few sprints. His interaction with the team was warm and supportive, even offering some guidance and advice to players as they prepared for the match against Railways.
Training with the Squad: A Focused Approach
When Kohli entered the nets, he was all business. He began by observing his Delhi teammate, captain Ayush Badoni, who was batting. Upon noticing Badoni’s nervousness, Kohli reassured him, saying, “Ayush tu batting karle, phir dono switch karke karenge,” meaning Badoni should continue batting and they would take turns later. It was clear that Kohli’s approach was not just about the game but also about making his teammates feel comfortable and motivated.
Kohli then took to the nets, practicing various shots, particularly focusing on his back-foot play and square drives. He spent an hour in the nets, working diligently with throw-downs before facing spinners Harsh Tyagi and Sumit Mathur. Despite the spinners not posing a significant challenge, Kohli made it clear that his aim was to fine-tune his technique in preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy.
A Unique Moment of Learning: Kohli’s Advice to Young Kabir
Amidst the hustle and bustle of training, one particularly heartwarming moment took place when a young boy named Kabir approached Kohli. Kabir, a fourth-standard student, had come to the grounds with a sketch of Kohli, having a personal connection through his father, Shavez, who played with Kohli in Delhi’s U-17 and U-19 teams. When asked about his conversation with Kohli, Kabir shared how the cricket legend had given him invaluable advice: “You have to practice hard. And it shouldn’t be your papa telling you to go to practice. You should tell papa, I have to go to practice.”
This advice, simple yet profound, left an indelible mark on the young boy. Kohli’s words resonated with Kabir, who now had a clearer understanding of what it takes to make it to the highest level of cricket—dedication, discipline, and self-motivation.
Kohli’s Impact on the Delhi Cricketing Scene
Kohli’s presence on the field had a transformative effect on the players and coaches alike. His attention to detail in every session, from batting technique to fitness, reminded everyone why he has remained at the top of his game for over a decade. Even in the casual, low-pressure environment of a Ranji Trophy match, Kohli’s professionalism and drive were evident.
Delhi’s cricket scene has not been the same since Kohli’s rise to stardom, and his return to the ground on Monday was a nostalgic moment for the local cricketing community. Kohli’s advice and actions served as a powerful reminder of what it takes to excel at the highest level.
Conclusion: Virat Kohli, the Icon and Mentor
Virat Kohli’s homecoming at Arun Jaitley Stadium ground wasn’t just a display of his skill but a testament to his roots and the impact he continues to have on the next generation of cricketers. For the young players and fans watching, it was more than just a visit from a cricketing legend—it was an opportunity to learn from a player who has achieved greatness and continues to inspire both on and off the field.
For young Kabir and his teammates, the encounter with Kohli will undoubtedly be a cherished memory and a lesson in what it truly takes to play for Team India. Kohli’s advice is clear: Hard work, dedication, and passion are the keys to success in cricket, and this advice will undoubtedly continue to inspire aspiring cricketers for years to come.
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