Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower has praised Virat Kohli for the high standards he sets within the team, stating that the former captain's unwavering hunger and discipline continue to inspire everyone in the dressing room. This came after RCB successfully defended their Indian Premier League (IPL) title with a thrilling five-wicket victory over the Gujarat Titans in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Kohli's Match-Winning Performance
Kohli played a pivotal role in the title triumph, remaining unbeaten on 75 off just 42 balls, an innings that included nine boundaries and three sixes. His knock guided RCB to chase down the target of 156 with ease. Notably, he reached his half-century in just 25 deliveries, marking the fastest fifty of his IPL career.
Flower's Remarks on Kohli's Influence
Speaking after the victory, Flower emphasized how Kohli's attitude significantly impacts the squad. "You asked about Virat’s hunger and how that affects him. When I was in the dressing room last night after the game, I mentioned it. His hunger and drive are genuinely inspiring. Even for older blokes like me, seeing someone as hungry, driven, disciplined, and ambitious as he still is, it’s wonderful to witness. We are very lucky to have him in the dressing room," Flower said during a virtual press conference on Monday, as quoted by news agency IANS.
He further elaborated on the standards set by Kohli: "He sets standards of intensity in the field. Anyone falling below those standards stands out. We don’t need coaches to drive intensity on the field because he lives it. Everyone else has to raise their game to get anywhere near it."
Kohli's Passion for Batting
Flower also highlighted Kohli's love for batting and the example he sets during training. "He works hard at his game, but you can see that he loves it. He loves batting, hitting the ball, and the feeling of the ball meeting the middle of the bat. I imagine the craft and mastery he feels with a bat in his hands. Those standards are easy for everyone to see in training sessions, and it helps the team head in the right direction."
Patidar on Kohli's Mentorship
RCB captain Rajat Patidar also credited Kohli for his guidance in his leadership role. "Regarding Virat bhai, his presence makes a lot of difference. For me, it's great learning. I always notice him on and off the field. Whenever I have doubts about leadership or decisions, I go to him. It's a great opportunity to learn from one of the best cricketers. His ideas, inputs, and experience help me grow in my new role."
Under Patidar's captaincy, RCB have now won back-to-back IPL titles. The skipper himself had a stellar season with the bat, scoring 501 runs at a strike rate of 192.69, including an unbeaten 93 in Qualifier 1.
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