Ahead of the highly anticipated World Test Championship final, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has acknowledged Virat Kohli’s exceptional work ethic, recognizing him as a standout player. Despite facing a challenging phase in his career, Kohli has regained his form and exhibited impressive performances across all formats, including a stellar showing in the recently concluded IPL season.
Kohli showcased prolific form for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), amassing 639 runs in 14 matches at an average of 53.25. Notably, he struck two consecutive centuries in the final two games of the tournament, although RCB narrowly missed out on securing a spot in the playoffs on the last day of the league matches.
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As India prepares to face Australia in the World Test Championship final, Kohli remains a prized wicket for the Australian team. Hazlewood, who has been Kohli’s teammate at RCB, could be entrusted with the task of dismissing the prolific Indian batsman.
In an interview with the International Cricket Council (ICC), Hazlewood was asked about sharing the dressing room with Kohli over the past two seasons, to which he emphasized Kohli’s remarkable work ethic that sets him apart from others.
Josh Hazlewood lauded the 34-year-old’s commitment to fitness and various aspects of the game. He said, “I think it’s probably how hard he works (that stands out). His fitness first of all – and then his skill at work and batting and fielding in particular. He is always out there (training) first and leaves last and the intensity he trains all the time is at such a high level it drags everyone else along for the ride. That can leak on to the other players and improve them as well.”
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Hazlewood’s admiration for Kohli’s unwavering work ethic underscores the challenges Australia will face when confronting the Indian batting maestro in the highly anticipated World Test Championship final. Kohli’s tenacity and commitment to his craft have played a significant role in his resurgence, making him a formidable opponent on the cricketing stage.
