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Soham Desai shares insights on his bond with Virat Kohli at the National Cricket Academy, highlighting Kohli’s dedication to fitness.
Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025. (Picture Credit: AP)
Former India strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai has revealed his bonding with ace batter Virat Kohli at the National Cricket Academy and later in the Indian cricket team, explaining how the star player was always mindful of every physical exercise that was conducted, learning about them closely.
Desai has said that he first met Kohli at the NCA in Bengaluru in 2018 and asked if he needed any help, but the latter declined.
Desai recounted that three months later, he was told by the Indian team’s then S&C coach, Shanker Basu, to help Kohli with his routine.
“IPL 2018, National Cricket Academy, Bangalore. I spot Virat stepping in, the stadium still buzzing behind him. He’s looking for the physio, but our introductions are brief, formal, almost storm-like,” Desai wrote on a LinkedIn post.
“I ask, “Need any help?” He replies with a straight face, “I’m good.” Simple. Direct. First impressions made, but not the kind anyone expects. Three months later, it’s fitness testing time at NCA before a big England Test Tour,” Desai wrote.
“Basu Sir looks at me—“Help VK with his routine.” Virat glances at me, grins and quips: “No way I’m running with this guy—he runs like a maniac!” Cue the laughter. Quick wit, quick camaraderie,” Desai added.
The former India S&C coach recounted that Kohli was someone who put his trust in what he observed and did not go by what he had heard.
“Respect isn’t built in handshakes. It’s earned when professionals watch each other work-see the hustle, the honest effort, the awareness that sets the elite apart. Virat doesn’t rely on what he’s heard-he sees, he observes, he registers everything,” Desai wrote.
“It’s not about fancy titles, big moments, or glowing resumes. Real buy-in starts with honest performance, long before any formal role exists,” Desai added.
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