Manpreet Singh Invites Virat Kohli and RCB for Hockey Training Session

Hockey Star Manpreet Singh's Invitation to RCB

Indian hockey player Manpreet Singh has extended an invitation to Virat Kohli and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team to join the hockey squad for a training session. Recently, Kohli made headlines with his comments on the fitness levels required in various sports, stating that cricketers are only about 15% as fit as their hockey counterparts. He remarked, “Cricket receives so much attention in our nation that we often neglect other sports. Honestly, we aren’t even 15% of the fitness of an Indian hockey player. If hockey players observed our training, they would find it amusing, as their sport demands significantly more,” during an interview.

Manpreet confirmed that the fitness standards for hockey players are indeed higher, noting that even goalkeepers must achieve a score above 20 in the Yo-Yo test. While cricketers also undergo this test, their required scores range from 16 to 18. “We would love to have Virat and the entire RCB squad join us for a training session. It would be a fun competition,” Manpreet shared with Boria Majumdar.

'Cricket Is Also Challenging' - Manpreet Singh

Despite his invitation, Manpreet acknowledged the challenges of cricket, emphasizing that it is also a demanding sport. He stated, "Their game has its own difficulties. The ball comes at high speeds. If we were to bat, it would be challenging as well. The ball can reach speeds of 150 kph, which is tough to handle." He further explained that while the requirements of their respective sports differ, both demand a high level of skill and focus.

Virat Kohli's Performance in IPL 2026

Kohli has had a remarkable season in IPL 2026, amassing 542 runs in 13 matches with an impressive average of 54.20 and a striking strike rate of 164.74. His outstanding performance has played a crucial role in RCB's dominance in the tournament, as they currently lead the table and have secured a spot in the playoffs.