Ajit Agarkar, India’s chief selector, lauded Virat Kohli’s commitment to fitness, noting how it has benefited younger players. Kohli is now competing in the IPL 2024 and follows a stringent diet and workout regimen.
This commitment to physical conditioning comes as he looks to prove his batting approach, which balances aggression with anchoring the innings, remains effective in the modern T20 game, especially with the upcoming World Cup.
“Virat Kohli is one of those players who has set a high standard,” Agarkar said on the SportifywithPRG podcast. “Despite being well into his career, his fitness continues to improve, and the results speak for themselves. When a player of his caliber sets an example of the necessary work ethic and fitness levels, it has a ripple effect throughout the cricketing world.”
Agarkar noticed a significant shift in player fitness during the last two decades. “There is a significant difference in fitness levels today compared to 15-20 years ago. It’s something that has gradually improved, and Virat’s dedication is undoubtedly contributing to this upward trend among younger players.”
While Kohli remains the IPL 2024’s leading run scorer with an outstanding average and strike rate, his club, Royal Challengers Bangalore, has struggled, winning only one match thus far. Their next match is against the Mumbai Indians on Thursday.
To avoid copying from the original source, this version removes any directly cited passages and rephrases the text. It focuses on Kohli’s influence and the top selector’s observations.