Former India fielding coach T Dilip has praised Virat Kohli for his exceptional intensity and athleticism, insisting that the veteran batter’s contribution to the team extends well beyond his performances with the bat. Despite being 37, Kohli continues to remain an important part of India’s ODI setup, with his energy in the field earning particular appreciation. Dilip, whose nearly five-year stint with the Indian team ended following the recent England tour, believes Kohli’s commitment while fielding has a significant impact on those around him.

According to him, the former India captain’s relentless approach motivates at least five other players to push themselves harder whenever they share the field with him. “When it comes to Virat Kohli, intensity is non-negotiable. You have seen him in the powerplay, how he is at a batter, whether at cover or short mid-wicket, with his reflexes and with his dives, is admirable,” Dilip said while speaking on JioStar.

Kohli’s ability to maintain the same energy during training sessions and matches has also impressed Dilip. The former fielding coach pointed to Kohli’s willingness to continue putting his body on the line, even at this stage of his career.

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“Even in the last series, he was putting in those dives and was sharp, always at you all the time. Even at this juncture of his career, he runs from long-on to long-on at either end during the death overs and he is the first one to run out of the circle when the field is spread,” T Dilip added.

However, Dilip believes Kohli’s biggest contribution comes when the ball is nowhere near him. The veteran batter remains constantly involved, demanding high standards from himself and maintaining his concentration throughout an innings.

“What impressed me more isn’t just the actions, what he does when the ball is at him, but also when the ball isn’t near him, he wants the ball in his hands,” T Dilip said.

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He further explained that there is little difference between Kohli’s intensity during practice and competitive matches. T Dilip believes this consistency creates a positive ripple effect across the team.

“With Virat Kohli, there isn’t much difference between him in a practice session and a match. It isn’t just Virat; it is the five other players who have stretched their limits when they are fielding with Virat Kohli,” he added.