India cricket star Virat Kohli has once again showcased why he remains a cornerstone of the national team. Speaking ahead of the ongoing ODI series against South Africa, Kohli emphasized the importance of fitness, experience, and the ‘feel good’ factor in preparing for international duty.
Kohli’s Match-Winning Performance in Ranchi
Kohli’s form came under the spotlight during the first ODI against South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on November 30, 2025, where he scored an impressive 135 off 120 balls. His innings was not only technically perfect but also displayed his ability to handle pressure and anchor the team’s innings.
This performance further reinforced his reputation as a match-winner, showing that even after years at the top level, his fitness and mental sharpness remain world-class.
Fitness: The Foundation of Modern Cricket
Kohli, widely regarded as one of the fittest cricketers globally, attributes much of his success to physical conditioning. According to him, consistent workouts, endurance training, and a strict diet help him sustain peak performance during long tours.
In modern cricket, where players frequently face back-to-back matches, maintaining physical fitness is critical to avoiding injuries and ensuring long-term consistency. Kohli’s commitment to fitness has become a model for younger players entering the national squad.
Experience: Turning Pressure into Performance
Beyond physical fitness, Kohli’s years of international experience allow him to navigate high-pressure situations with composure. He understands bowling strategies, pitch conditions, and opposition tactics, which gives him an edge over less experienced players.
“Experience allows you to read the game better. You know when to attack and when to consolidate,” Kohli said in a recent press interaction.
This blend of experience and instinct ensures he remains a reliable figure in India’s batting lineup, even during crucial match moments.
The ‘Feel Good’ Factor: Mental Readiness
Kohli also highlighted the role of the ‘feel good’ factor a combination of mental confidence, positivity, and emotional well-being in preparing for international cricket. He believes that enjoying the game and staying mentally fresh are as vital as technical preparation.
“When you feel good mentally, your body and mind work together. Confidence, focus, and positivity can often make the difference between a good innings and a great one,” Kohli explained.
This mental edge was clearly visible in his commanding 135-run performance in Ranchi, where he seemed in complete control, effortlessly handling challenging deliveries.
Backing from Team Management
India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has reiterated Kohli’s importance in the ODI setup. He stated,
“There is no reason to even discuss Kohli’s position in the ODI squad.”
Kotak’s comments underline that Kohli’s fitness, form, and mental sharpness have kept him irreplaceable in India’s limited-overs format. His preparation approach combining fitness, experience, and mental readiness serves as a blueprint for other players in the team.
Impact on the Team and Series Outlook
Kohli’s preparation and performance have boosted team morale, particularly for younger batsmen who look up to him as a role model. His fitness-focused approach sets high standards for professionalism, while his positive mindset encourages teammates to maintain consistency under pressure.
As the ODI series against South Africa progresses, Kohli’s role will be crucial in both anchoring the innings and accelerating scoring when required. His recent innings in Ranchi is a reminder that a combination of physical conditioning, experience, and mental readiness remains the cornerstone of elite performance.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli continues to redefine what it takes to prepare for India duty in modern cricket. His focus on fitness, experience, and the ‘feel good’ factor has enabled him to remain at the top of his game, delivering match-winning performances for the national team.
For aspiring cricketers, Kohli’s example shows that success is not just about talent but about holistic preparation balancing body, mind, and skill to excel at the highest level.