Virat Kohli has credited former head coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathour for helping him rediscover the joy of playing cricket after the burden of leadership affected his form. The star batsman, who stepped down as India's Test captain in January 2022 and later gave up the T20I and ODI captaincy, said the support staff played a crucial role in his resurgence.
Rediscovering the love for the game
Speaking to the media, Kohli revealed that the pressures of captaincy had taken a toll on his mental state and performance. He said that Dravid and Rathour provided a supportive environment that allowed him to focus on his batting without the added stress of leadership. "They helped me understand that I could still enjoy the game and contribute to the team's success without the burden of captaincy," Kohli stated.
Impact on performance
Since relinquishing captaincy, Kohli has returned to his prolific best, scoring centuries across formats. He highlighted that the freedom to express himself on the field has been instrumental in his return to form. The 34-year-old also praised the team management for fostering a culture of trust and encouragement.
Kohli's remarks come ahead of India's upcoming series, where he will be a key player in the batting lineup. His experience and form will be vital for the team's success in international cricket.
