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"Kohli Never Liked Practice Matches": KKR Bowling Coach Makes Shocking Revelation

Rajgeeta Yadav

Bharat Arun reveals [Source: @Imadarshpadala and @KnightsVibe/X.com]Bharat Arun reveals [Source: @Imadarshpadala and @KnightsVibe/X.com]

On May 12, India legend Virat Kohli stunned fans by announcing his retirement from Test cricket. Known for his love of the longest and purest form of the game, Kohli’s decision left many in disbelief. Although there had been rumours about his retirement, Kohli made it official on Instagram. 

Why Kohli Disliked Practice Matches

India former bowling coach, Bharat Arun praised Kohli and said that Indian cricket will him and his persona. He also revealed that Kohli never liked practice matches because he found them lacking in intensity.

 “He never liked practice matches. He always felt the intensity was somehow missing and never really enjoyed practice games. Instead, he would want to spend more time at the nets and would always choose the spiciest wicket and get bowlers to bowl at him from 16 yards — or take throw downs from 16 yards. The fact is — he always needed a challenge. That’s what got him going," he said.    

Arun reflected on his time working with Kohli and praised his passion for the game. One standout moment was during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. 

 "Virat had just scored a fantastic hundred at Perth but we did not win that match," he said.    

Despite scoring a century in the Perth Test, India lost the match, leaving the series tied at 1-1. However, Kohli’s leadership transformed the team’s mindset before the next match in Melbourne, boosting everyone’s confidence and helping them believe in victory.

 "Going into Melbourne, it was Virat who literally changed the dressing room mindset. He made everyone believe that we could do it and went about his business as leader in a manner unrivalled."  

Virat Kohli's Legacy In Test Cricket 

Virat Kohli, India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Tests, has 30 centuries and an impressive average of nearly 47. He also holds the record as India’s most successful Test captain, winning 40 out of 68 matches. 

It is important to note that Virat Kohli has not retired from ODI cricket and will be seen donning the blue jersey on the international stage during the upcoming India tour of Australia, scheduled from October 19 to November 8.