In a recent IPL 2024 clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings, former England captain Kevin Pietersen couldn’t help but marvel at Virat Kohli’s fitness and performance. Kohli’s stellar innings of 77 runs off 49 balls not only led RCB to victory but also showcased his unwavering passion for the game.
Kevin Pietersen, speaking to Star Sports, emphasized Kohli’s influence on Indian cricket, particularly in shaping young cricketers into well-rounded athletes. He highlighted Kohli’s dedication to fitness as a testament to his commitment to excellence.
“One of the things that he has done for Indian cricket is he has turned Indian cricketers into athletes, out-and-out athletes, and while doing so, he’s not just talked the talk. He has walked the walk, and you can see that,” Kevin Pietersen commended.
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Kevin Pietersen further praised Kohli’s fitness regimen, encouraging young cricketers to draw inspiration from his disciplined approach.
“When he is running between the wickets, his full commitment and his energy and his desire to be the best and he is the best. That starts before the field, that starts with diet, that starts with the energy he puts in the gym, that starts with the sacrifices that he has made to walk the walk because when you talk the talk, you have to walk the walk,” Kevin Pietersen elaborated.
Most 50+ scores by an Indian in the T20 format! 👌
There’s a reason why he’s called the GOAT. 🐐 👑
Warner and Gayle, he’s coming after you. 😉#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #IPL2024 #RCBvPBKS #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/S8O93S3I2O
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 26, 2024
On the match day, RCB opted to bowl first after winning the toss, restricting Punjab Kings to 176 runs with a formidable bowling display. Despite losing key wickets early in their run chase, including captain Faf du Plessis and Cameron Green, RCB found their saviour in Kohli, whose commanding innings shifted the momentum in their favour.
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With Dinesh Karthik’s explosive knock adding to the excitement, RCB secured their first win of the season. Looking ahead, they aim to maintain their winning streak as they face Kolkata Knight Riders in their upcoming match on March 29.
Pietersen’s admiration for Kohli’s fitness and performance underscores the transformative impact of the Indian cricket icon, not only within his team but also across the cricketing landscape.
