In a surprising turn of events, star Royal Challengers Bengaluru player Virat Kohli has credited former India head coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathour for helping him to rediscover his love for the game. The former India skipper shed light on his battle with imposter syndrome.
Virat Kohli's personal struggle
While speaking at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit Powered by Leaders in Bengaluru on Tuesday, former India skipper shed light on the personal struggles faced by athletes on a daily basis, as many insecurities haunt them regarding their gameplay.
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“As players, you're always walking a very thin line between being cautious and being insecure. You constantly feel like you're never good enough – that imposter syndrome is always there,” Kohli said.
Citing his personal experience, Virat said that even today he feels a little anxious while batting at the nets as many young players watch him. Virat said that a bad session can make them doubt his abilities.
“Even today, when I go into the nets, I still think: these youngsters are watching. If I have a bad session, they'll probably wonder, 'Is this the guy who's been playing for 20 years?' That thought is always there.”
Virat Kohli credits Rahul Dravid and Vikram Rathour
While revealing his personal battle with the imposter syndrome, Virat expressed his gratitude toward former India head coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathour for helping him during his toughest phase after giving up the Test captaincy.
“Rahul bhai understood that because he had experienced it himself at the highest level. Vikram had been around for years too. They understood what I was feeling and genuinely took care of me mentally. That put me in a space where I could enjoy my cricket again,” said Virat.
“I've said this many times about Rahul bhai and Vikram Rathore. I had a great phase in Test cricket, and whenever I meet them, I thank them from the bottom of my heart because they took care of me in a way that made me feel like I wanted to play for them,” added Virat.
Virat Kohli's strong campaign for RCB in IPL 2026
After playing 13 matches, the former RCB skipper has managed to score 542 runs at an average of 54.20 with an attacking strike rate of 164.74. The veteran opener has notched up one century and four half-centuries in the tournament. During the ongoing season, the former India skipper has breached 9,000 run mark in T20s.