‘Aggressive player who likes to dominate’ - Vikram Rathour lauds Virat Kohli’s adaptability across formats ahead of second WI Test

Ace Indian batter Virat Kohli is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of the generation. Over the years, the 34-year-old has garnered the love of many through his magnificent performances for the Indian team. Despite going through some rough patches, Kohli has been able to adapt to any situation and come back stronger from adversity.

In the ongoing multi-format series against the West Indies, Kohli hit a brilliant half-century in the first Test to help his side post a big total on the scoreboard in the first innings. Scoring 76 runs in 182 deliveries, Kohli’s knock was integral to India hammering the West Indies in the first Test and winning the game by an innings and 141 runs. 

Speaking of Kohli's performance, team India’s batting coach Vikram Rathour came forward to heap praise on him and was of the opinion that one of his biggest qualities was his adaptability. Furthermore, he also focused on how Kohli excels at doing just what is required from the team’s perspective as well.

"As a batting coach, I believe that cricket is about adaptability. He is an aggressive player who likes to dominate, but a better player is one who can change his game. A player who can play according to the conditions and team requirements is a better player. This is his biggest quality," Vikram Rathour said in a video posted by the BCCI. 

#TeamIndia Batting Coach Vikram Rathour heaps praise on @imVkohli 👍#WIvIND pic.twitter.com/5H1K4J1J6F

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 16, 2023

"He can play different forms differently. He can change his game according to the conditions. He showed it on a wicket that was turning a lot. The way he defended against the left-arm spinner was a lesson for many youngsters," he added.

Being in good form, Kohli missed out on scoring his 76th international century. However, seeing his performances, it is surely a matter of when rather than if. Rathour was of a similar opinion as he stated that the way Kohli has been playing, he will score a century soon. 

"Virat's good form continued for many years. He scored runs consistently for 7 to 8 years. The cricket logic says that the lean phase was about to come. When he lost momentum it went on for some time. There is not much to look at because he is batting well. The way he is playing he will score a century," Rathour said.