Virat Kohli Highlights the Exceptional Fitness of Indian Hockey Players

Kohli Acknowledges Hockey's Demanding Fitness Standards

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 19: Renowned Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, a key player for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, recently emphasized the remarkable fitness levels of Indian hockey athletes. He pointed out the rigorous physical requirements of the sport, shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of hockey.

At the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit held on Tuesday, Kohli expressed his views on the significance of fitness in sports, stating, “While many view fitness as something extraordinary, I believe it should simply be a standard expectation. It’s a necessity of the job, not a special achievement. Cricket garners so much attention in our nation that we frequently neglect other sports,” as per a statement.

“To be completely honest, we are not even 15% as fit as an Indian hockey player. If hockey players observed our training sessions, they would likely find it amusing, as their sport demands significantly more physically,” he remarked.

Kohli's observations have struck a chord within the Indian hockey community, with players interpreting his praise as not just flattery but as acknowledgment of the relentless dedication and discipline required in modern hockey.

In response to Kohli's comments, Indian Men's Hockey Captain Harmanpreet Singh recalled a recent discussion with the cricket star, noting the importance of his words for the sport.

“We had an insightful conversation about fitness at a recent event. He expressed curiosity about our fitness benchmarks, particularly the yo-yo test. When I mentioned that even our goalkeepers score above 20, he was genuinely taken aback. Our discussion was enriching, and I appreciate that someone of Kohli's stature is highlighting the fitness standards of hockey players, as it is one of the fastest and most physically demanding sports globally. Such recognition is invaluable to the hockey community,” Harmanpreet shared.

Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh echoed these sentiments, explaining why elite fitness is crucial for success in contemporary hockey.

“Today’s hockey is incredibly fast-paced. The ball can travel from one end to the other in mere seconds, and players are in constant motion, pressing and transitioning. The game requires top-tier fitness, as it is built on speed, endurance, and relentless running. Fitness not only enhances physical performance but also ensures mental readiness. Virat Kohli is among the fittest athletes globally and has transformed the fitness culture in Indian cricket. His discipline and commitment inspire countless individuals. For him to recognize our efforts and fitness standards is immensely meaningful,” Manpreet stated.

Star midfielder Hardik Singh added that Kohli's remarks validate the strenuous efforts hockey players invest in their demanding international schedules.

“Virat Kohli has consistently performed under immense pressure for India and has set fitness standards that athletes across various sports aspire to. When someone of his caliber acknowledges this, it holds significant weight for the hockey community. It also conveys that the fitness of hockey players should never be underestimated. Competing in back-to-back matches during tournaments like the Pro League and the Olympics, where we might play seven matches in eleven days with a limited squad, demands exceptional fitness and recovery. Hearing such words from an icon like Virat is incredibly motivating for all of us,” Hardik remarked.

Interestingly, Kohli's comments align with previous praise from experts familiar with the Indian hockey team. During the Hero Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, in 2025, renowned South African mental conditioning expert Paddy Upton lauded the dedication and fitness levels within the Indian Men’s Hockey Team.

Upton, who was involved with the Indian men’s hockey team ahead of the Paris Olympics and previously worked with the Indian cricket team during their 2011 World Cup victory under MS Dhoni, noted that the professionalism and commitment within the hockey squad are among the best he has witnessed in elite sports.

He even stated that while Kohli's standards in cricket are exceptional, the hockey team comprises at least 18 or 20 athletes who match that level of physicality.

With accolades now coming from both Kohli and Upton, the focus on the remarkable fitness culture within Indian hockey continues to intensify, reflecting the discipline, intensity, and preparation necessary to compete at the highest levels of the sport.