Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has heaped praise on Virat Kohli after the batting superstar produced a sensational performance against the West Indies in the first ODI in Thiruvananthapuram. Kohli smashed an unbeaten 139 off just 88 balls, powering India to a comfortable eight-wicket victory while chasing a target of 296.

Kaif believes Kohli’s latest performance offers plenty of lessons for the younger generation. According to the former India batter, Kohli’s fitness, hunger for runs, dedication, hard work and remarkable consistency have played a major role in keeping him at the top of international cricket.

Kohli’s recent run has been particularly impressive considering the difficult period he experienced during India’s tour of Australia. The right-hander endured consecutive ducks, which led to questions about his future and prompted some critics to suggest that he should consider retirement.

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However, Kohli has responded to those doubts with his performances in ODI cricket. Mohammad Kaif pointed out that the former India captain has scored more than 900 runs in his last 11 ODI innings, including four centuries.

“I still remember when Virat Kohli was out for consecutive ducks twice in Australia; people started commenting that Virat Kohli can no longer do it and should retire. Since then, he has played 11 innings and scored over 900 runs, including four centuries—and I am talking about ODIs,” Mohammad Kaif said in a video shared on X.

15k ODI runs for the King. His last 11 ODI scores are 74 n.o 135, 102, 65 n.o 93, 23, 124, 5, 65, 74, 139 n.o in this game. At the age of 37, he has been in the form of his life. Virat Kohli, what a player. pic.twitter.com/wnc82U6V1X

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) September 27, 2026

Kohli’s numbers become even more notable because he has featured in only 11 ODI innings during the year after retiring from Test and T20I cricket. Despite the limited number of appearances, he has maintained his rhythm and continued to deliver for India.

Against the West Indies, Kohli showcased an unusually aggressive side of his batting. He smashed 10 fours and nine sixes during his unbeaten 139, helping India chase down the 296-run target inside 42 overs. Mohammad Kaif described this version of Kohli as a new avatar, highlighting the batter’s aggressive approach and determination. He also referred to Kohli’s recent IPL success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, including match-winning performances in consecutive finals.

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According to Kaif, Kohli’s approach demonstrates how a player can respond to setbacks through preparation and hard work. He believes young cricketers can learn valuable lessons from Kohli’s career, particularly his commitment to fitness, consistency and maintaining high standards.

Mohammad Kaif also praised Kohli’s approach whenever he represents India, saying his primary objective remains contributing to a victory rather than chasing personal milestones. The former India batter concluded by congratulating Kohli on becoming only the second batter to reach 15,000 ODI runs, while wishing him continued success in the next phase of his career.