Kohli changed the culture of Indian cricket, says childhood coach Rajkumar

Coach Rajkumar Sharma reflects on Virat Kohli's legendary Test career and impactful leadership, highlighting his contributions to Indian cricket.

In Virat Kohli’s storied journey to the high table of Test cricket, different people must have lent a helping hand at different stages. But the man who was at the heart of the star batter learning the basics and honing his skills in the formative years was coach Rajkumar Sharma.

As his superstar protege bid adieu from the longest format on Monday, Rajkumar, who played nine First Class and three List A matches for Delhi, was understandably overwhelmed with emotion.

“The immediate reaction to Kohli’s retirement was very emotional. At the same time, I am very proud of what he has done for the country. It has been a legendary career,” the 59-year-old told The Hindu on Monday.

At the pinnacle of his Test career, Kohli exhibited supreme skill and fortitude in spades. But beyond all the runs that he piled up across different climes and circumstances, his legacy is also inextricably linked to his contributions as captain. Statistically, he is India’s most successful skipper, winning 40 of 68 Tests from 2014 to 2022. In his time handling the reins, he made high fitness standards non-negotiable, and laid emphasis on having a core of skillful pace bowlers.

“His biggest legacy is leading from the front as captain. His self-belief and the way he carried himself, his passion to win matches for the country, that was the best thing about him. The way he built a pool of fast bowlers was a remarkable contribution to Indian cricket. He changed the culture of Indian cricket by setting an example with his fitness and leadership,” Rajkumar said.

Does he have a favourite Kohli knock? “When he got four hundreds in Australia in 2014-15, he was at his best as a Test batter,” responded the coach.

“I think he should still play till the 2027 ODI World Cup. I would want him to play another World Cup,” Rajkumar added.