Kapil Dev: Fitness, Discipline, and Workload Management Crucial for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma's Longevity | Exclusive

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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been exemplary cricketers, but as they approach the twilight of their careers, maintaining peak fitness becomes essential to continue performing at the international level.

Legendary India cricketer Kapil Dev's observation in this direction is insightful, especially in the context of modern cricket, where fitness plays a pivotal role in extending players' careers.

In an exclusive chat with MyKhel, Kapil highlights that a cricketer's prime, typically between the ages of 26 and 34, underscores the physical demands of the game.

For senior players like Kohli and Rohit, who are past that age, fitness, discipline, and workload management will be crucial for staying competitive in all formats.

"In my opinion, the period between 26 and 34 years is your prime and thereafter the fitness of the players will ensure their longevity," the former India captain remarked.

Kapil's (65) statement magnifies the importance of experience and maturity in a cricketer's development. He suggests that a cricketer truly becomes a pro between the ages of 26 and 34, which is when they typically reach their full potential in terms of skill, temperament, and understanding of the game.

Expecting younger players, especially those under 26, to consistently perform miracles may be unrealistic, as they are still learning and growing in the game. While young talent can have breakthrough performances, Kapil emphasises that it usually takes time for players to fully mature into seasoned professionals capable of handling the pressures of international cricket consistently. "Rome wasn't built in a day. It takes time to develop players," he reasoned.

Kapil's view on retirement aligns with the widely accepted belief that the decision to retire should rest solely with the cricketer. Every player knows their body, mental state, and passion for the game best.

While external factors such as form, fitness, and team dynamics may influence the decision, ultimately, it is up to the individual to determine when the time is right to step away. This personal choice allows players to retire on their own terms, after assessing whether they can still contribute meaningfully at the highest level.

"Ravi Shastri retired at a very early age while Sachin Tendulkar had a longer stint, so it is completely up to the individual to decide their way of life. My way of thinking is to stay fit and keep playing as long as you are enjoying the game," Kapil - who retired from international cricket at the age of 35 - signed off.