Virat Kohli Reflects on Mark Boucher's Influence During His Early RCB Days
Virat Kohli Shares Insights on Mark Boucher's Impact
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 6: Renowned Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batsman Virat Kohli recently discussed the significant role that former South African wicketkeeper Mark Boucher played in his development during his initial years with the team. Kohli credited Boucher for helping him tackle challenges, particularly with short balls.
In the latest episode of the RCB Podcast, available on the franchise's YouTube channel, Kohli expressed how Boucher approached his coaching with a mindset focused on nurturing Indian talent. He recognized potential in Kohli and emphasized that failing to play for India across all formats would be a 'disservice' to himself.
“He identified my weaknesses and guided me on what I needed to improve to elevate my game without me even asking,” Kohli recalled. Boucher took him to the nets, stressing the importance of mastering the short ball, stating that international opportunities would be limited if he couldn't pull the ball effectively.
Kohli reminisced about a conversation with Boucher during a match in Chennai or Kolkata, where Boucher predicted that if he didn't see Kohli representing India in four years, it would be a missed opportunity.
Reflecting on Boucher's influence, Kohli noted that their discussions motivated him to strive for improvement. “He had a profound impact on my early career. I was realistic about my skills, having observed many players, but my determination to win for my team was unwavering,” he stated.
Boucher played for RCB from 2008 to 2010, a period when Kohli was still establishing himself in international cricket and had yet to make his Test debut. During his time with RCB, Boucher accumulated 388 runs in 27 matches, averaging 29.85, including a half-century.
Kohli attributed his eventual selection in the Indian team to his relentless spirit and the support of then-captain MS Dhoni and coach Gary Kirsten. “Gary and MS clearly communicated their faith in me to play at number 3, highlighting my energy and engagement as valuable assets to the team,” he explained.
Despite not being the most technically proficient or naturally talented player, Kohli's ambition to excel and eagerness to learn were key to his progress.
Initially, Kohli felt intimidated by senior Indian players like Zaheer Khan, Anil Kumble, and Rahul Dravid, fearing the need to work hard and maintain good behavior. However, he found a mentor in Zaheer Khan, who helped him feel at ease.
“I developed a close bond with Zak, who took me under his wing. With foreign players, I lacked that initial connection, as I had never played alongside them,” he added.
Kohli noted that the legendary players had established relationships from years of competition, which made it challenging for him to connect initially. He felt more comfortable discussing cricket than personal matters, waiting for natural rapport to develop.
“Everyone was adjusting to the dynamics of having young, ambitious players alongside seasoned legends. However, by the second year, the team became more cohesive, and relationships began to flourish,” he concluded.
As the IPL progresses, Kohli currently leads the run-scoring charts with 505 runs in 11 matches, averaging 63.12, including seven half-centuries and a top score of 73*. RCB sits atop the table with eight victories and three losses, preparing to face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 9.