Cheteshwar Pujara, in conversation with ESPNcricinfo, shared his thoughts on Virat Kohli’s lasting impact on Test cricket following Kohli’s retirement. After a distinguished career spanning 14 years and 123 matches, Kohli’s contributions to the longer format are being closely examined.
Pujara commented, “He paid a lot of attention to the Test format in an era where all the youngsters were looking to play more white-ball cricket. For Virat, the ultimate format of the game was Test cricket and for that, he worked really hard.”
Kohli’s efforts to enhance fitness within the Indian team left a significant mark, especially after he became full-time captain in January 2015. According to Pujara, “When he started leading the team from 2015 onwards, that’s the time when he brought in the fitness culture in the Indian team. All the teams were trying to work hard on their fitness, but in the Indian team, the fitness had to improve, and that was the time when the shift did come in.”
Kohli’s insistence on prioritising fitness paved the way for more fast bowlers in the Indian squad, placing an equal emphasis on Test cricket and striving to establish India as a dominant Test-playing nation. Pujara highlighted Kohli’s emphasis on taking 20 wickets in Test matches, often favouring this strategy over maintaining extra batting cover. “From the time he was in charge, he always wanted to take 20 wickets,” Pujara remarked. This strategy demanded collective effort, creating a challenging and cohesive environment.
Recalling the famous 2021 Lord’s Test against England, Pujara provided insights into Kohli’s dynamic leadership. With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Kohli’s instructions for his bowlers to deliver “60 overs of hell” led to a stunning 151-run victory. Pujara reflected, “That was one of the best victories I have been part of. Because no one thought that India can win that Test match.”
Kohli’s era as captain is marked by a blend of strategic aggression and motivational leadership, shaping an Indian cricket team that dared to excel beyond sub-continental conditions.
