The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Virat Kohli is his commanding batting, match-winning performance, and attacking on-field attitude. There is however another, lesser-known aspect of the Indian cricketing great that must be highlighted: his career as a bowler.
Although not a front-line bowler, Virat's golden arm has yielded a few international breakthroughs that have been surprising — and die-hard fans will never forget them.
Kohli the Part-Time Bowler
Virat Kohli began as a medium pacer in his initial domestic cricketing days. However, as his batting career flourished, bowling was relegated to the backburner. Nevertheless, in tense moments, captains turned to him — and most times, he came through.
One such example that comes to mind easily was during the 2011 World Cup when Kohli rolled his arm over against Bangladesh. He used to bowl occasionally in ODIs and T20s too, especially when India had overs at hand or when they needed to get a breakthrough.
His career bowling figures will never compare to specialist bowlers, but his 8 ODI wickets and limited ball-swinging ability surprised many. And who can possibly forget that 2016 spell against New Zealand. Not just fun to watch — it was effective.
Kohli's Bowling Action: A Style of His Own
Kohli's bowling action is simple, effortless — a lot similar to the man's off-field demeanor. He bowls with a relaxed rhythm, perhaps the same relaxed confidence you'd watch a guy walk out in Puma shoes from Myntra. It's this relaxed nature that makes his part-time bowling so unpredictable. It's not textbook — but it's cool.
Off the Pitch: Kohli's Recovery and Lifestyle Game Off the pitch, recovery is as important as match performance — and Kohli is well aware of that. He's a fitness icon himself, after all, with grueling regimens that ensure high levels of performance. It stands to reason, thus, that players like him believe in comfort and good rest off the pitch. Companies like Duroflex, which deals in orthopedic mattresses, form a part of an ideal recovery regimen for a cricketer.
Imagine Kohli walking back home from a match, legs sore from a run-chase, and maybe even an over or two with the ball — resting on a Duroflex mattress. Performance starts with recovery, you understand.
Where Style Meets Substance
Just like his bowling – occasional but impactful – Kohli's off-field fashion too is a showstopper. Airline attire or gyming gear, Myntra is the place now for those who would like to emulate his fashion sense. Puma to super-cozy loungewear, Kohli's fashion appeals just like his cricket: stylish, confident, and innovative.
Final Thoughts
Virat Kohli will perhaps never be remembered for 5-wicket hauls, but his bowling cameos added an unpredictable touch to his cricket. He perfectly represents the modern cricketer — capable, stylish, and always trying to surprise. And, similar to his bowling, Kohli's off-the-field endorsements in apparel (Myntra), fitness gear (Puma), and recovery gear (Duroflex) complete the list of a true icon. So when Kohli receives the ball again, don't blink — you might miss another surprise turn by the King!
