Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of India’s most promising young cricketers, has often spoken about the profound influence of senior players on his career. Among those who have left a lasting impact on him is Virat Kohli, the former Indian cricket team captain, whose work ethic and relentless pursuit of excellence have motivated Jaiswal throughout his journey in the sport. Jaiswal, who made his debut for India in 2023, has repeatedly acknowledged how watching Kohli’s approach to the game helped shape his own mindset and performance.
“I have seen Virat Kohli paaji doing things and follow all the processes day by day. And seeing him doing things that motivates me a lot & helped me a lot. That something makes the difference in you & your game,” said Jaiswal in a recent interview.
These words reflect the admiration Jaiswal holds for Kohli, not just as a player but as a role model who exemplifies dedication and discipline in all aspects of his cricketing life. For Jaiswal, Kohli’s consistent attention to detail and his ability to stay focused on the process rather than just the outcome is something that has influenced his approach to cricket.
Virat Kohli, known for his intensity, passion, and fitness, has long been regarded as one of the best athletes in world cricket. His commitment to maintaining peak physical fitness and his obsession with preparation are qualities that Jaiswal has tried to imbibe. Kohli’s work ethic, which has helped him achieve numerous records, is something Jaiswal admires and aspires to replicate. The young cricketer has openly stated that the ability to stay focused on the process and work tirelessly toward improvement is something he learned from Kohli’s example.
For Jaiswal, the lesson is simple yet profound: success in cricket, like in life, is all about the process. “It’s the small things that matter,” Jaiswal explained, emphasizing that the difference between a good cricketer and a great one lies in the attention to detail and the commitment to improvement every day. Kohli’s influence has been pivotal in helping Jaiswal understand that there is no shortcut to success. Instead, it is the day-to-day work, the discipline, and the continuous striving for excellence that define a champion.
Kohli’s impact on Jaiswal is not limited to just the technical aspects of the game. His mental toughness and ability to handle pressure in high-stakes situations have also been a source of inspiration. Jaiswal, who has made significant strides in both domestic and international cricket, understands the importance of maintaining composure during challenging moments. Watching Kohli handle intense pressure on and off the field has taught him how to channel his emotions and stay grounded, a crucial lesson for any cricketer, especially one playing at the highest levels.
Kohli’s influence on Jaiswal’s career is reflective of a broader trend in Indian cricket, where senior players play an integral role in the development of the younger generation. As India transitions from the Kohli era to new leadership under Rohit Sharma, the legacy of players like Kohli remains strong. The focus on fitness, mental toughness, and dedication to the craft are lessons that have been passed down and are now being embraced by the next generation of cricketers.
One of the key takeaways from Jaiswal’s comments is the importance of surrounding oneself with role models who set high standards. Virat Kohli’s career has been an embodiment of the idea that talent alone is not enough to succeed at the highest level. It is the mental strength, the relentless pursuit of fitness, and the dedication to one’s craft that make a player stand out. Jaiswal has embraced this philosophy, recognizing that the process of improvement never ends, and it is through consistent hard work that one can achieve greatness.
As Jaiswal continues to build on his promising start to international cricket, it is clear that Kohli’s legacy will continue to inspire him. With each passing match, Jaiswal is not only becoming a better cricketer but also embodying the qualities that Kohli has instilled in the team over the years. The sense of discipline, the focus on fitness, and the unwavering commitment to improving are all elements that Jaiswal will carry forward in his career.
Moreover, Kohli’s impact on Jaiswal is part of a larger tradition of senior players taking young talent under their wing in Indian cricket. The mentorship provided by players like Kohli, Dhoni, and others has been integral in shaping the next generation of cricketers. It is a culture of excellence that is deeply ingrained in the Indian team, and Jaiswal is a prime example of how these values are passed down and nurtured in younger players.
In conclusion, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s journey as a cricketer has been significantly shaped by the example set by Virat Kohli. Through Kohli’s example of hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence, Jaiswal has learned valuable lessons that continue to impact his game. As Jaiswal progresses in his career, Kohli’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire him, serving as a reminder that success in cricket, as in life, is built on the foundation of continuous improvement and dedication to the process.