NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has lavished praise on Virat Kohli, stating that the Royal Challengers Bangalore opener has achieved a level of focus where no bowler can trouble him. Kohli has been in exceptional form in IPL 2024, showcasing his skill and determination.
RCB are set to face Chennai Super Kings in their final league game in Bengaluru on Saturday. The hosts need a convincing victory to surpass their opponents and secure the final playoff spot based on net run rate.
Speaking on Star Sports, Kaif likened Kohli’s current form and mindset to that of a monk in deep meditation, undisturbed by external distractions. “When a hermit goes to the Himalayas, he is in a different zone when he is meditating. Nothing distracts him. Whether there is a loud noise, someone shouts, or cries, it doesn’t make a difference. Virat Kohli has reached that zone,” Kaif said.
“He is not seeing the scorecard and is just in his zone and concentrating. He knows the intent with which he needs to play, regardless of the bowler in front of him. Whether it’s a fast bowler or a spinner, he has reached a state where there is no match-up,” the former India batter added.
Kohli is the highest run-getter in IPL 2024, amassing 661 runs at a strike rate of 155.16 in 13 games. Kaif emphasized that Kohli is driven by a desire to lead RCB to victory. “He has come just to dominate. He has the passion to make his team win, and that has been evident since the second match. In the first match against Chennai, he got out when he pulled a Mustafizur Rahman slower bouncer, and Ajinkya Rahane took the catch,” Kaif observed.
“From the second match against Punjab, he came determined. He was jumping down the track, hitting Kagiso Rabada, and playing slog sweeps against spinners. You talk about the fourth or fifth gear, but he has reached the 15th gear. No one will reach that level,” the cricketer-turned-commentator added.
As RCB prepare for their crucial match against CSK, Kohli’s form and focus will be pivotal in determining the team’s chances of making it to the playoffs.
