Michael Clarke, Sanjay Manjrekar react as Virat Kohli arrives 90 minutes early to practice ahead of India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 clash

In the video shown by the broadcasters Star Sports, Kohli was working on defense. The local net bowlers were bowling to the 36-year-old. 

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Kohli is trying too hard. 

"I think he is trying too hard. Coming 90 minutes earlier to practice is a sign. He can come two minutes before the match and get going. I think he is trying a bit too much," Manjrekar told Star Sports.

 

 

On the other hand, former Australia skipper Michael Clarke feels that Kohli is a big tournament players. Clarke won't be surprised if Kohli scores big against Pakistan.

"I think Virat is one of those players who thrives in big tournaments. He hasn't been in the best of form, which is why he's training an hour and a half earlier. That's what great players do-when something doesn't feel right, they make time to correct it before stepping onto the field," Clarke told Star Sports.

 

 

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"What I like about the Champions Trophy is that there's no time to ease into the tournament-you have to be at your best straight away. Virat is such a great player that he might just flick that switch. You might have watched him the other day and thought he wasn't at his best, but he steps up when India need him most. Don't be surprised if it happens against Pakistan on the big day," the 43-year-old added.

 

 

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In the run chase against Bangladesh, Kohli joined Shubman Gill in the 10th over after captain Rohit Sharma's wicket. He scored 22 runs from 38 balls. The veteran batter lost his wicket to leg-spinner Rishad Hossain.