Sanjay Bangar has provided fascinating insights into Virat Kohli’s meticulous preparation and technical adjustments after a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Kohli, one of India’s most prolific batters, had a forgettable series, managing just 190 runs across five matches, which fell short of his own high standards. Determined to bounce back stronger, Kohli turned to Bangar, his former batting coach, for guidance. The two worked closely at Bangar’s academy, focusing on refining Kohli’s batting technique ahead of the all-important Champions Trophy. This intense preparation bore fruit in spectacular fashion, as Kohli went on to score his 51st international hundred in a high-pressure match against Pakistan, reminding the cricketing world of his exceptional ability to perform on the grandest stage.
Kohli’s innings against Pakistan was a testament to his adaptability and tactical approach. He played the pacers with controlled aggression, attacking whenever an opportunity presented itself, while demonstrating patience and restraint against spin. Speaking to the Times of India, Bangar explained how Kohli’s first major adjustment was to wait for the ball instead of committing to the front foot too early. The change allowed him to judge the length better and position himself more effectively against different types of deliveries. Bangar noted that Kohli made a conscious effort to ensure that the ball came to him rather than him lunging forward unnecessarily. This approach helped him regain his balance and control at the crease.
"He (Kohli) waited for the ball to come to him. He really wasn't on the front foot all the time. He was willing to cover the infield as well. Against spin, what was good to see in the first half of his innings was that he was playing a lot off the back foot. Then once he got that confidence, he started coming forward. So, starting off the back foot and then gradually going on to the front foot was the plan," Bangar explained.
Another significant adjustment Kohli made was altering his bat positioning. Bangar highlighted that when Kohli was at his best, his bat used to come down from the second or third slip area, which enabled him to execute controlled shots with precision. Over time, minor deviations in his technique had crept in, affecting his ability to play certain strokes effectively. Recognizing this, Kohli worked on ensuring that his bat followed its natural trajectory, allowing him to regain control and fluency in his shot-making. This small but crucial change played a pivotal role in his improved performance.
"When Kohli was in form, his bat used to come from the second or third slip area, allowing him to play more controlled shots. He is a guy who leaves no stone unturned as far as preparation is concerned. He knew that he had to step up (after the Australia tour). He brought that intensity to his game, and one could see it in his body language," Bangar added.
Beyond technical adjustments, Bangar also emphasized the mental aspect of Kohli’s preparation, which was equally instrumental in his resurgence. The former batting coach revealed that they had discussions about Kohli maintaining intense focus and watching the ball right until the moment of contact. Bangar urged Kohli to adopt a mindset where he treated every delivery with complete dedication and commitment. This level of concentration, coupled with his hunger for runs, is what makes Kohli an extraordinary player.
"What he did well was to watch the ball till the end, till it made contact with his bat. That's something we discussed - to watch the ball like a hawk and give more than 100% to each delivery. He is hungry for runs and going by the innings he played (against Pakistan), he can easily play for another 3-4 years in international cricket," Bangar concluded.
Kohli’s performance against Pakistan was not just a return to form but a masterclass in adaptability, technique, and mental resilience. The way he meticulously worked on his game after the Australia series and successfully implemented those changes under pressure speaks volumes about his dedication and determination. With his renewed approach, Kohli has once again demonstrated why he remains one of the best batters in the world. As he continues to evolve and refine his craft, his latest adjustments indicate that he still has a lot to offer to Indian cricket. His hunger for success remains undiminished, and if his recent performances are anything to go by, cricket fans can expect many more stellar innings from him in the years to come.
