Former captain Virat Kohli started a fitness culture in the Indian cricket team. The existing players in the Indian side and those waiting for their opportunities have maintained exemplary levels of fitness. Meanwhile, Indian captain Rohit Sharma is often under the scanner as many find him bulky. But Rohit passes his Yo-Yo Test and is as fit as Kohli according to India’s strength and conditioning coach Ankit Kaliyar.
"Rohit Sharma is a fit player. He has good fitness. He looks a bit bulky but he always passes the Yo-Yo test. He is as fit as Virat Kohli. He looks like he is bulky but we have seen him on the field. His agility and mobility is amazing. He is among the fittest cricketers," Kaliyar said in a conversation with TOI.
But Kaliyar credited Kohli for creating the fitness culture in the team.
"Virat is a leading example when it comes to fitness. He has created a culture of fitness in the team. When your top player is so fit, then you become an example for others. He injects confidence in others. When he was the captain, he ensured everyone remained fit. Fitness was his top parameter in the team. He has created that culture and discipline in the team. That atmosphere was created by Virat bhai and it's a commendable thing. He is the reason why all the Indian players are so fit," said Kaliyar.
Kaliyar went on to reveal that young Indian opener Shubman Gill draws inspiration from Kohli not just as a batter but in terms of fitness as well.
"Shubman is very fit. Not just fit, he is a very skillful player. There is no doubt that Shubman is inspired by Virat bhai. Be it batting, fitness, or skill, Shubman is following Virat bhai. I am sure Shubman will be doing well for the country in the coming years," he stated.
Rohit and Kohli are currently on a break after India’s heartbreaking loss to Australia in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 final. They will be in action as India take on South Africa in the two-Test series starting December 26.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK
