‘Stay Relaxed and Focused’: Virat Kohli Gets Advice From Childhood Coach Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

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As Virat Kohli gears up for the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, his childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, has shared valuable advice for the former India captain.

Speaking ahead of the first Test match of the series at Perth, coach Sharma emphasized the importance of staying true to one's natural game.

"I said just play a natural game, and nobody can take anything away from you," Virat Kohli’s childhood coach told reporters. "You should enjoy the game, and that is what he is. He is very relaxed, he is very focused, and he has really worked hard. He has done a lot of preparations for this particular series."

Kohli has been putting in the hours, and the star batter was seen visibly sharpening his skills in the nets at Perth.

The 36-year-old batter is determined to bounce back after a tough series against New Zealand at home, where he managed only 93 runs across six innings. With Rohit Sharma unavailable for this series, Kohli’s role becomes even more pivotal as India looks to secure their third consecutive series win on Australian soil.

Despite his up-and-down form in recent matches, Kohli’s credentials remain unquestionable. He is India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket, boasting 9,040 runs in 118 matches at an average of 47.83, with 29 centuries to his name.

However, the Perth challenge is daunting, particularly given the pacer-friendly conditions of the Optus Stadium and the high stakes of the rivalry.

India’s preparation has revolved around fine-tuning techniques to counter Australia’s potent bowling attack. Kohli’s efforts in practice highlight his determination to make an impact. Known for rising to big occasions, the star batter will look to lead from the front in a high-pressure encounter.

The first Test, starting on November 22, is expected to set the tone for the series, with Kohli’s performance under the spotlight. As his coach aptly put it, staying relaxed and focused might just be the key for Kohli to rediscover his best form Down Under.