Virat Kohli reveals how Arun Jaitley encouraged him when his father passed away

New Delhi, September 13: Hailing the contribution of late Arun Jaitley in his career, India captain Virat Kohli revealed how the former Union Minister motivated him after the demise of his father.

Virat was only 18 when his father passed away. The Delhi-cricketer was playing a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi in 2006, at the time of his father's death. The youngster showed great composure as he went on scoring 90 runs.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) unveiled a new pavilion stand after the India captain and on this occasion, the name of Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium was changed to Arun Jaitley Stadium.

The entire Indian cricket team was present at the unveiling ceremony, held at the Weightlifting Hall of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. Kohli was present at the venue with his wife Anushka Sharma and other family members.

'I had a special connection with Jaitley Ji'

Speaking on the occasion, Kohli said: "It is more special. It is happening at the same time as the stadium being named after Arun Jaitley Ji."

"I know Jaitley Ji as a person who came to my house and encouraged me when my father passed away. He also motivated me. So, I had a special connection with him. He was a very good person. So, it is a proud moment that both the things happened at the same time," he added.

Saw my father breathe his last: Kohli

"I was playing a four-day game at the time and was supposed to resume batting the next day when this (father passed) happened at 2:30 odd in the morning. We all woke up but had no idea what to do. I literally saw him breathe his last," Kohli had told Graham Bensinger in an interview.

Kohli was also present at the unveiling ceremony of a pavilion stand at the iconic stadium.

Amit Shah present at the occasion

DDCA president Rajat Sharma, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the entire Indian team were present on the occasion.

"Virat Kohli's outstanding contribution to world cricket has done DDCA proud. We are happy to honour him for achieving certain milestones and unbeatable captaincy record," DDCA President Rajat Sharma said in his statement.

Youngest active cricketer to achieve the honour

Kohli became the youngest active cricketer to be bestowed with the honour of a stand named after him.

"I never thought that I will be honoured at a big stage like this. Thank you so much Rajat Sir and Amit Shah ji for doing the honours. Also, my team with whom I spend most of my time, a special group of people... It is a very proud moment for me and my whole family," thanked Kohli.