He is disciplined without being robotic – Andy Flower lauds role model Virat Kohli

Former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower showered praise on Virat Kohli for his work ethic. Flower observed Kohli from close quarters while coaching Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League 2024. 

Meanwhile, Kohli announced his T20I retirement after taking India to glory in the T20 World Cup. The talisman could only manage 75 runs in the seven matches of the T20I showpiece but brought his best in the all-important final against South Africa.

The Indian opener scored a match-winning knock of 76 runs off 59 balls with the help of six fours and two sixes and took the team to a fighting score of 176 after they lost three early wickets.

Meanwhile, Kohli has an insatiable hunger for success and he is known to give his 120% on the field. Kohli is also known to prepare for the matches in the most professional way and leaves no stone unturned.

“I hadn’t thought about it (Kohli’s retirement). I was a little surprised. I really enjoyed working with Virat in the IPL last season. I have utmost respect for him, obviously as a player but also the way he supported Faf du Plessis (RCB captain) and myself and Mo Bopat (RCB director of cricket)” Flower told The Times of India.

“He (Kohli) is a brilliant role model. He is an outstanding professional sportsperson. He looks after himself really well. He is disciplined without being robotic,” the former Zimbabwe captain said.

The former left-hander added that Kohli enjoys being with his teammates and has a sharp cricketing brain, which helps him stay ahead.

“He laughs and has fun, has a cheeky sense of humor and takes the mickey out of people. He always mixes in with team gatherings and he is very approachable. He has a very good cricket brain and can think out of the box too,” Flower said.

After celebrating the T20 World Cup victory, Kohli is currently in London.