New Delhi: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes that Virat Kohli will approach the upcoming Indian Premier League season with renewed energy and intent, following his retirement from Test cricket.
Kaif expressed confidence that Kohli’s break from the longest format will help him play with a “fresh mind”, adding that the star batter is determined to silence critics questioning his strike rate in T20 cricket.
Fresh approach after Test retirement
Kohli, known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate later, has recently shown a shift in his batting approach in white-ball formats. Instead of taking time to settle, he has begun playing attacking shots early in his innings, signalling a more aggressive mindset.
Kaif pointed out that Kohli’s adaptability across formats has always been one of his biggest strengths. He emphasised that transitioning between formats is not new for the former India captain and that his experience will ensure a smooth adjustment in the IPL.
“It will not make a difference. In fact, it will benefit him as he is coming from a break with a fresh mind. Making that switch is normal for him as he has been doing it for years,” Kaif said.
He added that such transitions might be difficult for other players, but Kohli’s consistency across formats sets him apart.
Answering critics with intent
In recent IPL seasons, Kohli’s strike rate has occasionally come under scrutiny, particularly while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. However, Kaif believes the batter has already worked on this aspect of his game.
“He is even playing aggressively in white-ball now, the strike-rate is there. He has improved his game and now he has fixed his mind that till he plays, he will make it known to his critics that he is Virat Kohli,” Kaif remarked.
According to Kaif, Kohli’s mental resilience, especially after stepping away from Test cricket, will play a key role in shaping his performances this season. The veteran batter, he said, is likely to come back hungrier and more determined.
Leadership and high standards
Beyond his batting, Kohli’s influence within the team environment remains significant. Kaif highlighted that the senior player will not tolerate complacency among teammates and will continue to demand the highest standards.
“Virat Kohli will not accept any complacency. They will not take it lightly, having won the title. Kohli always starts from zero,” Kaif said, underlining the player’s relentless mindset.
He added that Kohli’s presence ensures that every player remains focused and committed, both in training sessions and during matches.
“If Kohli sees that someone is not putting in that effort or energy, he will be the first one to call them out and remind them that the goal is to win,” Kaif explained.
Driving a winning culture
Kaif further stressed that having a player like Kohli in the squad automatically elevates the team’s intensity. His competitive spirit and discipline create an environment where complacency has no place.
The former cricketer believes that Kohli will aim for nothing less than a trophy and will push his teammates to maintain that level of ambition throughout the tournament.
“In terms of commitment, he is going to keep everyone on their toes. He will come in with a lot of hunger and the will to make winning a habit,” Kaif added.
Conclusion: A determined Kohli eyes IPL success
As the IPL season approaches, all eyes will be on Kohli to see if his evolved batting style translates into match-winning performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
With a refreshed mindset, renewed aggression, and unwavering commitment, Kohli appears set to take on both opponents and critics alike. If Kaif’s assessment holds true, the upcoming season could witness a reinvigorated version of one of cricket’s modern greats.