New Delhi: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has showered glowing praise on Virat Kohli, hailing him as the ultimate benchmark for fitness, dedication, and match-winning preparation in Indian cricket.
In a recent video discussion, Kaif lauded Kohli’s unwavering commitment, especially in the backdrop of India’s completed ODI series against New Zealand.
Kaif emphasised that Kohli has been the “hero of fitness” for the past 15-20 years, living mostly in London yet returning to deliver stellar performances for India and in the IPL. “No one needs to teach Virat Kohli how to prepare or what to eat — he knows the recipe to win matches for India,” Kaif said. He added, “Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli don’t need anyone to tell them how to prepare, what to eat, or how to stay fit. Kohli has been the fitness icon for 15-20 years.”
In a candid take, Kaif described Kohli as someone who carries “India in his heart,” declaring, “There is no bigger deceiver than someone who tries to teach Virat Kohli preparation — because he lives for the team, boss.” He stressed that Kohli possesses the perfect “recipe” for what the Indian team needs to triumph, and outsiders offering advice should keep it to themselves.
The praise comes amid Kohli’s consistent excellence in white-ball cricket, reinforcing his status as an indispensable force. Kaif’s comments underscore the respect Kohli commands from peers, highlighting how his discipline and passion continue to inspire generations even as debates swirl around senior players’ roles.