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Manan Vohra, who has played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for various teams, recently shared a memorable incident involving Virat Kohli. While playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the 2017 IPL season, Vohra received a piece of advice from Kohli that ultimately led to his downfall in a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Vohra, like many young cricketers, admired Kohli for his intensity and passion. Kohli, known for his aggressive style of batting, urged Vohra to attack the bowler. During a tense moment in the game, Kohli advised Vohra to smash the next ball from Sandeep Sharma for a six. The moment, however, didn’t pan out as Vohra had hoped. He attempted the shot but misjudged the delivery and got out, much to his disappointment.
Reflecting on the incident, Vohra acknowledged that Kohli’s advice was meant to motivate him, but he felt he got carried away by the energy and confidence Kohli exudes on the field. Vohra admitted that while Kohli’s intensity can be inspiring, young players must remain level-headed and play within their strengths, rather than trying to replicate every aggressive tactic.
Kohli, after the game, clarified his advice, telling Vohra that while he encouraged aggression, it was important to assess each delivery and play smartly. This moment taught Vohra a valuable lesson about balancing aggression with caution in high-pressure situations.
The incident highlights the aura that Kohli carries as a leader on the field, inspiring players to push their limits, while also demonstrating the importance of strategic thinking in cricket. Vohra’s experience serves as a reminder of the need for cricketers to balance passion with tactical awareness, especially when playing alongside legends like Kohli.
Vohra continues to apply these lessons in his career, aiming to sharpen his game while maintaining the balance between aggression and patience.