‘Virat Kohli fully ready for World Cup’ – Childhood coach backs former India captain

Virat Kohli showed no signs of rust as he made a stellar comeback to the Vijay Hazare Trophy on the eve of Christmas after a gap of almost 15 years. The former India captain slammed a belligerent century in a run chase, helping Delhi register a comprehensive four-wicket win against Andhra Pradesh.

Kohli slammed 131 off 101 balls, hitting 14 fours and three sixes. During the epic knock, the 37-year-old became only the second Indian batter, the first being Sachin Tendulkar, to get past 16,000 runs in List A cricket.

Kohli retired from T20Is in 2024 and Tests earlier this year. He is focusing on only the ODI format, with an eye on the next 50-over World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia in 2027.

Kohli’s childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, praised the Delhi batter for his magnificent performance on returning in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Sharma referred to Kohli as the most consistent player in the Indian squad and is completely prepared for the World Cup.

“He is in brilliant form. He batted very well and ensured Delhi’s victory. He played domestic cricket after a long time, but still performed exceptionally well. He is the most consistent player in the Indian team and is fully ready for the World Cup,” Sharma was quoted as saying by India Today.

Kohli has been in tremendous form in ODI cricket this year. In 13 innings, he has amassed 651 runs at an average of 65.10 and a strike rate of 96.15. This includes three centuries and four fifties. During the recently-concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa, Kohli slammed two centuries and one unbeaten fifty.

The Indian stalwart will return to international cricket during the ODI series against New Zealand, which gets underway on January 11 in Vadodara. Before leaving for international duty, Kohli will look to take Delhi into a strong position in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.