Ravichandran Ashwin Lauds Virat Kohli's Stellar Performance in IPL 2026

Ashwin's Admiration for Kohli's Energy

Ravichandran Ashwin, the former Indian off-spinner, expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli following an impressive performance against SRH in the opening match of IPL 2026. Ashwin was particularly struck by Kohli's relentless energy and intensity, especially considering his retirement from Test and T20I formats. Kohli made a remarkable return to T20 cricket on June 3, after last playing in the IPL final the previous year, and he quickly showcased his skills by scoring his 28th IPL half-century, leading the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a six-wicket victory.

During a discussion on a JioHotstar show, Ashwin remarked, "He walks the talk." He emphasized that Kohli seems to be demonstrating how the game should be played with passion and commitment. Ashwin highlighted Kohli's remarkable running between the wickets as a testament to his enduring enthusiasm for the sport, despite his age and experience.

Ashwin noted, "I find him quite bizarre at this age. I tell him this during our chats now and then. He was batting on 40-odd, and RCB were coasting. He ran for the first single, paused, and even before the other batter reached halfway, he was already eyeing a second run. That boundary was just 57 meters on the leg side, showcasing the zeal he still brings to the game."

Before the IPL, Kohli was in excellent form, having scored 93, 23, and 124 runs in the ODI series against New Zealand in January, where he emerged as India's top run-scorer. Additionally, he excelled in the preceding series against South Africa in December, accumulating 302 runs, including two centuries.